Posted on: Friday, April 20, 2001

Steelers keep Ma'afala from New England

Associated Press

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers yesterday secured the rights to Chris Fuamatu-Ma'afala for the 2001 season by matching the New England Patriots' tender offer to the restricted free agent running back.

Fuamatu-Ma'afala, a former St. Louis School and University of Utah standout, agreed to a one-year, $700,000 offer with the Patriots last Friday. If the Steelers had not at least matched the offer, they would have gotten New England's first sixth-round pick in this weekend's NFL draft.

Fuamatu-Ma'afala fractured a foot against Cleveland on Oct. 22 and missed the rest of the season. He finished with 149 yards and one touchdown on 21 carries.