Browns rival Steelers lose important defender due to suspension

The Shades of brown biggest rival Pittsburgh Steelers discovered that one of their most important offseason additions will now miss nearly half of the regular season.

Reports point to cornerback Cameron Sutton was suspended eight games for violating the NFL’s rules of conduct after an assault charge was filed against him in March. Sutton does not plan to appeal the suspension, so the league’s decision will be final before the 2024 season.

The 29-year-old defensive back signed a one-year, $1.2 million contract with Pittsburgh earlier this offseason. The agreement marked a return to the Steel City for Sutton, who spent the first six years of his career with the franchise before playing for the Lions in 2023.

After a domestic violence incident in Lutz, Florida, involving Sutton and the manhandling of a woman, police were unable to locate the former third-round pick for several weeks. He eventually turned himself in, but was released by the Lions after a warrant was issued for his arrest.

That opened the door for Pittsburgh to reunite with a familiar face last month. Sutton was expected to be the Steelers’ top nickelback this season, a role that earned him a three-year, $33 million contract with Detroit last offseason. The suspension will keep him from returning to the Steelers until Week 10, as Pittsburgh has a bye in Week 9.

Sutton has nine career interceptions, eight of which came during his six years with the Steelers. Last year with Detroit, he had just one interception while also setting a career-high 65 tackles.