When healthy Ahmad Bradshaw is a devastating runner. (USATSI)
When healthy, Ahmad Bradshaw is a devastating runner. (USATSI)

Ahmad Bradshaw had two 1,000-yard rushing seasons with the New York Giants. He has 4,200 rushing yards and 32 rushing scores in six years in the league -- all done while sharing the position with other backs for much of his Giants' tenure.

He is, without question, one of the more vicious runners in football. That word is meant as a compliment. When Bradshaw is at the top of his game, few run more aggressively than he does. He's also only 27.

He's a free agent. So why isn't such a dangerous back being signed?

Teams that have interest in Bradshaw love him but think it's only a matter of time before he gets hurt again, and they want him on the cheap. Very cheap. So far, Bradshaw doesn't want to sign on the cheap. So he heals. And waits.

Bradshaw visited the Steelers recently, and various sources confirmed the team is interested in him. What one source said that hasn't been reported is that the team is "extremely nervous" about doing so, which explains why he visited the team, was examined by team physicians and left without a contract.

The Steelers might still sign him at some point, but it's not definite.

"You could get a Pro Bowler for the next two or three years," said a Steelers team source, "or a guy who is going to be hurt a lot. It's a risk. You just don't know."

Which is why the Steelers and other teams want Bradshaw on the cheap.

Bradshaw is just 27, but he has had three surgeries on his right foot. Think about that. Three. He has also had procedures done on both ankles.

Bradshaw is typical of what happens to some backs in this league. Because Bradshaw always runs so hard, he got hurt a great deal. Bradshaw never believed in avoiding contact, which makes him highly admirable but also puts him in the situation that he's in now.

Teams are scared to sign Bradshaw at the moment, but it will happen. Just not at the money that he wants.