It is not everyday a six-time Pro Bowler and two-time All Pro right guard gets released, but that is exactly what happened with Pittsburgh Steelers and David DeCastro.
The Steelers released the right guard on Thursday and did so because of what has been an ankle issue.
DeCastro has been having his ankle evaluated recently, sources said. He’s had issues with it for quite some time. Had surgery on it before last season. He’s evaluating his future. https://t.co/pzokwBJ3CT
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) June 24, 2021
Behind the Steel Curtain had this to say:
This proves DeCastro was indeed playing injured last season, but it also seems DeCastro is at a crossroad in his career. Continue to deal with the ankle injury, or call it a career.
Obviously the ankle issue has to be figured out by the Arizona Cardinals, but DeCastro graded well in 2020 despite the ankle issue and would definitely be the best right guard on the team.
If you like PFF grades, he graded at 64.1 overall, but had a very good 79.5 pass blocking grade. Combine that with Rodney Hudson, and Justin Pugh and the pass blocking grades for the interior would be:
Justin Pugh – 74.4 pass blocking
Rodney Hudson – 70 pass blocking
David DeCastro – 79.5 pass blocking
That would be an upgrade, but is it worth the risk?