Morgan Burnett’s first venture into free agency is taking the former Packers safety to Pittsburgh.
The ninth-year veteran has signed with the Steelers, the team announced Tuesday. Burnett started all 113 games he played in Green Bay (including playoffs) since being selected in the third round (71st overall) of the 2010 NFL Draft.
The 6-foot-1, 209-pound safety registered 699 tackles, nine interceptions, eight forced fumbles and 7½ sacks during his eight seasons with the Packers.
Heralded for his leadership and versatility, Burnett was twice voted a playoff captain and played virtually every spot in the secondary the past two seasons. He also served as a linebacker in Green Bay’s ‘Nitro’ nickel sub-package.
Burnett’s departure could mean an expanded role for 2017 second-round pick Josh Jones, who recorded 71 tackles, two sacks and an interception in 16 games (seven starts) as a rookie.
Along with former Pro Bowl safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, the Packers also return third-year veterans Kentrell Brice and Marwin Evans at the position. Brice started three games last season before going on injured reserve with an ankle injury.
