The Pittsburgh Steelers placed starting offensive tackle Willie Colon on the injured reserve list on Wednesday. The move was expected, as Colon injured his right Achilles' tendon last month and underwent surgery shortly after.
Colon's agent, Joe Linta, called Colon's injury a "classic torn Achilles," with a recovery time of 9 to 12 months.
Colon, 27, is eligible to become a free agent after the 2010 season, and Linta said his client would be open to staying in Pittsburgh.
The Steelers wasted no time beginning a search for Colon's replacement, bringing in free-agent left tackle Flozell Adams in for a visit last month. But the former Pro Bowler didn't sign with the Steelers, and NFL Network's Jason La Canfora reported at that time a deal wasn't imminent, according to a league source. According to La Canfora, Adams is seeking $4 million per season, a price the Steelers are hesitant to pay.
Instead, the Steelers added depth to their offensive line by signing veteran Adrian Jones on Wednesday. The six-year pro missed the 2009 season, but has made 26 starts for the New York Jets and Kansas City Chiefs since entering the league in 2004.
The Steelers also attended the workout of free-agent guard Chester Pitts on Tuesday, according to La Canfora, as they explore options for help on the line.
