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KENDRELL BELL
Inside linebacker

It's been projected that Bell will sign with the defensively deficient Kansas City Chiefs, who might be desperate enough to sign an explosive but injury-riddled player.

During training camp last summer, the Steelers tried to sign Bell to an extension, but the deal wasn't consummated because the demands of Bell's agent were deemed unreasonable. Todd France, Bell's agent, wanted a contract similar to that of defensive end Jevon Kearse, who signed a free-agent deal with the Philadelphia Eagles that included a $16 million signing bonus.

The Steelers scoffed at that demand and put off negotiations.

As it turns out, Bell didn't start a game for the Steelers and played sparingly in only three games due to a sports hernia and groin injuries. Cowher didn't even dress Bell for the AFC Championship game even though he was healthy.

There's a chance Bell could be re-signed if he doesn't receive a substantial offer elsewhere.

But even if Bell leaves, the Steelers might not miss him. Their defense still finished No. 1 in the league without him.

WILLIE WILLIAMS
Cornerback

Williams' chances of returning next season improved Friday when the Steelers cut Scott.

Scott was axed for two reasons: One, his salary (he was due to make nearly $3.9 million this year); and two, the Steelers envision Ricardo Colclough, their No. 2 pick in last year's draft, as an every-down player who's ready to start.

Williams, who's 34, played well after he replaced the injured Scott at mid-season. But because of his age, he may find few takers on the open market. So perhaps he'll re-sign with the Steelers for the NFL veterans' minimum salary.

CHARLIE BATCH
Quarterback

Even though he'd love to stay in his native Pittsburgh, Batch, a graduate of Steel Valley High School, will move on. He believes he's young enough (30) and talented enough to play a few more years.

Batch will try to latch on with a team that needs a reliable backup.

Because Tommy Maddox has told the Steelers he's satisfied with his role as No. 2 behind Ben Roethlisberger, the Steelers obviously don't have the need or cap room to re-sign Batch, who was paid $1 million last year.

KEYDRICK VINCENT
Guard

While filling in last season at right guard for the injured Kendall Simmons, Vincent proved he has the skills and size (6-foot-5, 325 pounds) to be an NFL starter.

But with Simmons expected to be back at full strength from a season-ending knee injury, Vincent is gone.

He'll have no trouble signing with one of the many teams that needs help on the offensive line.

OLIVER ROSS
Tackle

Max Starks, a third-round draft pick last year, is the Steelers' right tackle of the future. But that doesn't necessarily mean Ross' days in Pittsburgh are numbered. The Steelers need a reliable No. 3 tackle, and Ross just might be the man for the job.

Last season in his first year as a full-time starter, Ross did OK, period. He's might find the going tough in free agency. If he doesn't find any suitors on the open market, he may re-sign with the Steelers but at a much lower price than last year ($1.75 million base salary).

Ross is versatile enough to play guard, and the Steelers need help at that position with Vincent leaving.

BARRETT BROOKS
Tackle

At the end of training camp last season, Brooks had to sweat it out when the Steelers made their final cuts. As it turns out, Brooks, an over-the-hill journeyman with 10 years of NFL experience, survived. But he hardly played and didn't even dress for the last 12 games.

Obviously, he's not a high priority. His only hope of being a Steeler next season is if the Steelers don't bring in a tackle via free agency or the draft.

AINSLEY BATTLES
Safety

Battles is not a high priority. Especially after McKeesport's Russell Stuvaints held his own as a contributor in the dime packages and on special teams. More likely than not, Battles won't be retained.

TYRONE CARTER
Safety

There is no reason to bring back Carter. He was signed at mid-season when safety Mike Logan was placed on the season-ending injured reserve list with a hamstring injury.

There's no reason to believe that Logan won't return.

He's a solid defensive back, a great guy to have in the locker room, and he comes cheap with a $715,000 base salary.

KENDRICK CLANCY
Nose tackle

Although he's been a capable backup during his five-year stay with the Steelers, Clancy is not good enough to be a full-time starter in the event Casey Hampton would be injured again.

On the other hand, Chris Hoke proved this past season that he can produce as a first-stringer. He more than held his own when Hampton suffered a season-ending knee injury. Plus, Hoke can also play defensive end.

That means Clancy has no future with the Steelers.

WALTER RASBY
Tight end

Like Brooks, Rasby is an aging, 32-year-old journeyman who won't have any value on the open market. He was out of the league last December when the Steelers signed him after Riemersma was hurt.

It's highly unlikely that the Steelers will re-sign him.

MATT CUSHING
Tight end

Cushing is smart enough to know his skills are limited. He'll never be an NFL starter. But he's a solid special teams performer and a capable No. 3 tight end. Plus, he can play fullback if needed.

He will likely re-sign for the league minimum.