The Pittsburgh Steelers are already making news on draft day as Ed Bouchette reports via Twitter that unrestricted free agent quarterback Byron Leftwich has been re-signed. Leftwich missed all of the 2011 season after breaking his left arm in a preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons. He was placed on injured reserve at the start of the season as a result.
Leftwich also missed a majority of the 2010 season as well with a sprained knee suffered in a preseason game against the Carolina Panthers. He was not placed on injured reserve but only saw action in the season finale against the Cleveland Browns in a mop up role.
There had been reports that the Indianapolis Colts had interest in bringing in Leftwich to help groom number one draft pick Andrew Luck. Former Steelers offensive coordinator Bruce Arians was hired by the Colts for the same position following his contract not being renewed this offseason. There is no word if the Colts indeed made an offer to Leftwich though.
No terms of the deal with Leftwich have been released, but it figures to be a one year deal more than likely for the minimum. Leftwich would qualify for a qualifying contract if the signing bonus is $65,000 or less. I will update the info as soon as it becomes available.
The Steelers also re-signed veteran Charlie Batch a few weeks ago and Dennis Dixon was allowed to test free agency as well, but has yet to sign with another team.
