Cortez wants what Ike had

By Mike Prisuta

As cornerback Ike Taylor’s role changed during his 11th season with the Steelers, third-year cornerback Cortez Allen contemplated how his responsibilities might someday likewise be altered.

The Steelers got away from specifically assigning Taylor to the opposition’s best receiver as the 2013 season progressed, and as that was happening Allen looked forward to someday assuming that role if called upon.

“Of course,” he confirmed. “I’ve always liked to challenge myself. I’ve always wanted that challenge just to see how I match up. And it’s always fun to go against talent like that.

“Ike’s done it before me. Hopefully, one day I’ll be in that position to be the level of player that he is. It’s a day-by-day process. I’m just trying to learn as much as I can from him and the guys around me.

”Wherever I am in the defense, wherever they see fit, what’s best for the team, then that’s where I’ll be. I’ve never been a guy who said, ‘I want to play on this side or that side.’ We’re both capable of playing either side. And we’re both capable of playing anybody we face.

“It’s always us. It’s never them.”

Allen learned and experienced a great deal in 2013. And he addressed where he’s been and where he’s potentially headed.

READ MORE: http://www.steelers.com/news/article-1/Cortez-wants-what-Ike-had/b106a1c0-f260-4737-8c10-ca5c10c2553e

I hope he's heading to being a top corner in the league. He's got the right mentality, but that doesn't always mean success.

Give me another Cortez Allen in place of Ike and I will be a happy camper.