First Call: Details about Steelers' interest in Fletcher Cox; Steelers scouted college QB showdown; Marc-Andre Fleury's new mask

More details are coming out about the Steelers’ alleged trade-deadline pursuit of Fletcher Cox. The team may also have an interest in some high-profile quarterback draft candidates.

The Detroit Lions released a player some Steelers fans may remember.

And Marc-Andre Fleury may have a new look in the net if he plays Tuesday against the Penguins.

Fletcher fantasy

Over the weekend, CBS Sports’ Jason La Canfora reported that the Steelers were considering a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles to acquire defensive lineman Fletcher Cox.

He was on 93.7 The Fan Monday to give some more background as to how the trade almost happened in advance of the Nov. 2 deadline.

“There was some mutual interest, but they could not agree on value. In the end, who spoke to who first depends on who you talk to. But no one would deny that there was an ongoing dialogue,” La Canfora told “The PM Team.” “The Steelers were one of a handful of teams interested in Fletcher Cox. But I’m told Philly wanted at least a (third-round pick) and that ended up being a little too rich for the Steelers blood.”

La Canfora went on to say the Steelers were likely concerned about giving up more draft capital in the wake of trades to acquire Devin Bush and Minkah Fitzpatrick in recent years.

Cox is 30 years old and still under contract next year. His cap hit for 2022 is slated to be $26.5 million. He has only one sack and 15 tackles (one for loss) so far this year in nine games. He had totaled 20.5 sacks over the prior three seasons.

To me, a third-round pick would’ve been worth the risk. Especially since Stephon Tuitt’s status remains unknown. And whatever cap concerns exist, well, the Steelers have a way of making those things go away if they want a player badly enough.

Admittedly, Cox has always been one of my favorite players. And I’ve long wished he could’ve been a Steeler. Even if Cox is past his prime, if Tuitt does come back before the season ends, imagine a three-man front of Tuitt, Cox and Cameron Heyward. But it’s a moot point now as the trade deadline has come and gone.

Meanwhile, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Las Vegas Raiders may have been the most interested in acquiring Cox from the Eagles.

Keeping an eye out

The Steelers were scouting the Liberty-Mississippi game Saturday.

Two of the top five quarterback prospects in the 2022 NFL draft — Liberty’s Malik Willis and Ole Miss’ Matt Corral — were on display.

The Steelers joined 15 other teams in attendance.

16 NFL teams in attendance for today’s matchup between Liberty and Ole Miss, including: ARZ, ATL, BUF, CAR, DAL, DEN, HOU, IND, NE, NO, PHI, PIT, TB, TEN, SEA, and WFT.

— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) November 6, 2021

Corral and the Rebels came out on top. He threw for 324 yards and a touchdown en route to a 27-14 victory. Willis had a rough day with only 173 passing yards, no touchdowns through the air and three interceptions. However, he did rush for 71 yards and a touchdown.

Wait? That guy?

The Detroit Lions are making moves in advance of their game at Heinz Field Sunday.

The franchise waived tight end Darren Fells and wide receiver Tom Kennedy from the 53-man roster. Fells had previously asked for his release.

The move to cut Kennedy was less expected. According to LionsWire.com, “Kennedy has served as the top reserve slot receiver over the last few games and also offered some ability as a return man.”

Kennedy also flashed at Heinz Field during the preseason. He led Detroit in receptions and yards during the team’s 26-20 loss to the Steelers in August.

Tom Kennedy picks up 3⃣1⃣ yards to take the #Lions inside the 5-yard line#DETvsPIT | ????FOX pic.twitter.com/FzgzSOkA0q

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) August 22, 2021

Blough ➡️ Tom Kennedy for 2⃣5⃣ #DETvsPIT | ????FOX pic.twitter.com/zxVCJKtngp

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) August 22, 2021

It’s possible Kennedy could sign with the Lions on the practice squad if he clears waivers on Tuesday.

New look

If Chicago Blackhawks goalie Marc-Andre Fleury plays in goal against the Penguins Tuesday, he’ll have a new-look mask.

And it’ll be for a positive purpose.

According to ChicagoBlackhawks.com, the ex-Penguins netminder will wear his new mask in honor of Native American Heritage Month. It was designed by Ojibwe artist Patrick Hunter.

Introducing ????’s Native American Heritage mask – brought to life with a design by Ojibwe artist Patrick Hunter pic.twitter.com/JeX5XHf2hK

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) November 7, 2021

Fleury told the team’s website that his wife’s (Veronique) family is of Abenaki and Mi’kmaq descent.

“I wanted to do something special to recognize and celebrate Native American Heritage Month,” Fleury told Blackhawks.com. “I love his design, especially the inclusion of the flowers and feathers.”

Fleury’s first season in Chicago has been a struggle. He is 1-7-0 with a 4.11 goals against average. His save percentage is .881.