"Former New York Jets wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery left Saint Vincent College Monday without signing a contract with the Steelers.

He wanted to see if he could find a better situation than the Steelers, who wanted him to be the fifth receiver. But, after visiting Baltimore, Cotchery changed his mind and signed a multiyear contract Thursday with the Steelers.

He will not be with the team for the preseason opener tonight against the Washington Redskins in Landover, Md., and is not expected to join them until the Steelers return to training camp Sunday.

The Steelers were seeking a veteran for the slot, and Cotchery, who played all eight of his NFL seasons with the New York Jets, fits the bill. At 6 feet, 203 pounds, he brings size and toughness.

He had 358 catches, 4,514 yards and 18 touchdowns in his career with the Jets. In the AFC divisional playoff game last season at Heinz Field, Cotchery had five catches for 33 yards and a 4-yard touchdown against the Steelers.

Cotchery might not be the only player to return after visiting the Steelers at camp. They could sign former Cincinnati Bengals tight end Reggie Kelly , who was at camp Monday. Neither side has ruled out a reconciliation."