PITTSBURGH – The Steelers have released veteran defensive back Patrick Peterson a few days before the start of free agency, according to sources.

Peterson signed a two-year, $14 million deal last March. He started 16 games, mostly at outside corner, but he also played safety near the end of the season when the Steelers were hit hard by injuries there. His passer rating against was 91.5 and he allowed four touchdowns in coverage.

Peterson, 33, was set to count almost $10 million against the cap, and the Steelers will save $6.8 million in cash by releasing him. Peterson was due a $3 million roster bonus next week.

Peterson's release means the Steelers need to acquire a starting cornerback in free agency or the draft. Free agency begins next week, with the legal tampering period set to commence on Monday.

Levi Wallace, who started nine games for the Steelers last season, is set to become a free agent. The only other cornerbacks under contract are Joey Porter Jr., Corey Trice and Darius Rush. Trice tore his ACL in training camp last summer and missed his entire rookie season. Rush played sparingly, logging 39 snaps in three games last season.