First Signing

Overnight, the Steelers got their first deal of this free agency period done: they re-signed backup LB Clint Kriedwaldt. This is typical Steelers behavior, working hardest to sign in-house free-agents, particularly the backups and no-names. Kriedwaldt is a capable backup and solid special-teamer, but I imagine that the Steelers faced no real competition for his services.

Speaking of competition: the 49ers have declared themselves in the ARE hunt. While the Steelers had reportedly expressed interest in WR Andre' Davis, Davis has signed with the Bills. The Browns (Davis' old team, before he landed with the Pats) are interested in Chris Hope, though no report has been made of any negotiations or even a visit.

And a correction: the St. Louis Post-Dispatch is reporting today that new acquisition Corey Chavous will be playing strong safety, not, as had been reported elsewhere, free safety. OJ Atogwe, a third-round draft choice last year from Stanford, will have the opportunity to win the starting FS role. In other words, Chavous' signing means that the Rams are waving goodbye to Adam Archuleta. Is Washington waving hello? The move seems like a good one for the Rams: Archuleta has been an asset to the Rams, but his coverage skills are questionable and his tackling isn't good enough.