The Pittsburgh Steelers took steps toward retaining restricted free agents B.J. Finney and Xavier Grimble when they reportedly made tenders to each player Wednesday.
According to separate NFL Network reports, the Steelers offered Finney, a 27-year-old guard/center, a $3.095 million second-round tender. Any team can try to sign Finney but would lose a second-round draft pick in the Steelers don’t match the offer.
By extending that second-round tender to Finney, the Steelers could be prepared to part ways with 10-year veteran Ramon Foster, who will be an unrestricted free agent. Finney has made nine starts on the interior offensive line in 43 career games with the Steelers.
Grimble, 26, was extended an original-round tender worth $2.025 million. The Steelers would receive no compensation if Grimble signs with another team and they decline to match the offer. Retaining Grimble would give the Steelers a second veteran tight end on the roster. Backup Jesse James is an unrestricted free agent and is expected to test the market.
Grimble had six catches for 86 yards while appearing in all 16 games last season. He was best remembered for his fumble at the goal line that ruled out of the end zone for a touchback in a November loss at Denver.
