The Pittsburgh Steelers, a team steeped in tradition and known for their hard-nosed defense, entered free agency with a clear goal: improve their roster and make a deep playoff run. With roughly $28 million in salary cap space and a sense of urgency in the air, the Steelers have been active in pursuing free agents. Let’s delve into some dream signings, potential steals, and logical additions that could bolster the Steelers’ lineup.
Dream Team Acquisitions: Game-Changers for the Steelers
While some of these signings might seem like long shots, they represent impact players who could elevate the Steelers to a new level of competitiveness.
Patrick Queen, ILB: A Defensive Cornerstone
Imagine a world where the Steelers land a Pro Bowl inside linebacker from their arch-rival, the Baltimore Ravens. Patrick Queen, a young and dynamic linebacker, would be a transformative addition to the Steelers’ defense.
Why Queen Makes Sense:
- Elite Talent: Queen possesses a rare blend of athleticism, instincts, and coverage skills, making him a true three-down linebacker.
- Shutting Down the Run: The Steelers have struggled against the run in recent years, and Queen’s ability to diagnose plays and make tackles in space would be invaluable.
- Proven Track Record: At just 24 years old, Queen is coming off his best season as a pro, earning Pro Bowl honors.
The Obstacles:
- Cost: Queen’s market value is estimated at $18 million per year, a significant investment for the Steelers.
- Divisional Rival: Prying away a star player from a division rival like the Ravens is a difficult task.
Despite the challenges, Queen represents the kind of impact player who could solidify the Steelers’ defense for years to come.
Justin Simmons, S: A Dynamic Duo in the Secondary
Pairing Justin Simmons with Minkah Fitzpatrick would create arguably the most formidable safety tandem in the NFL. Simmons, a versatile and ball-hawking safety, would elevate the Steelers’ secondary to an elite level.
Why Simmons Makes Sense:
- Coverage Prowess: Simmons excels in coverage, capable of playing both deep safety and covering tight ends and slot receivers.
- Playmaking Ability: With 18 interceptions and 57 passes defended in his career, Simmons has a knack for making game-changing plays.
- Veteran Leadership: Simmons’ experience and leadership qualities would be invaluable to a young Steelers’ secondary.
The Financial Hurdle:
- High Price Tag: Simmons’ market value is around $11.1 million per year, which, when combined with Fitzpatrick’s contract, would represent a significant investment in the safety position.
If the Steelers are willing to allocate the necessary resources, Simmons would be a transformative addition to their defense.
Lotto Ticket Signings: High-Risk, High-Reward Gambles
These potential signings come with question marks but offer the Steelers intriguing upside if they can recapture their previous form or realize their potential.
C.J. Gardner-Johnson, DB: A Versatile Playmaker
C.J. Gardner-Johnson is a versatile defensive back capable of playing both safety and slot cornerback, a valuable asset in today’s NFL.
Why Gardner-Johnson Is Intriguing:
- Ballhawk: Despite playing only three games last season, Gardner-Johnson has 12 interceptions in five NFL seasons.
- Scheme Fit: His ability to line up at multiple positions makes him an ideal fit for the Steelers’ defensive scheme.
- Potential Value: Coming off an injury-shortened season, Gardner-Johnson could be available at a discounted price.
The Risk:
- Injury History: Gardner-Johnson’s recent injury concerns raise questions about his durability.
If Gardner-Johnson can stay healthy, he could provide the Steelers with a young and dynamic playmaker in their secondary.
Chase Young, DE: Unleashing the Potential
Chase Young, the former number one overall pick, hasn’t quite lived up to the lofty expectations placed upon him. However, at just 25 years old, he still possesses the talent to become a dominant edge rusher.
Why Young Is a Gamble Worth Taking:
- Raw Talent: Young’s size, speed, and athleticism are undeniable, and a change of scenery could be what he needs to unlock his full potential.
- Pass Rushing Upside: Young recorded 7.5 sacks in 2022, showcasing flashes of the pass-rushing prowess that made him a highly coveted prospect.
- Low-Risk, High-Reward: A one-year “prove-it” deal would allow the Steelers to evaluate Young without a long-term commitment.
The Uncertainty:
- Inconsistency: Young’s production has been inconsistent, and it remains to be seen if he can develop into a consistent game-changer.
If Young can put it all together, he could form a fearsome pass-rushing duo with T.J. Watt.
Tre’Davious White, CB: A Proven Veteran Seeking a Rebound
Tre’Davious White, a former All-Pro cornerback, has battled injuries over the past two seasons. However, when healthy, he is one of the premier shutdown corners in the league.
Why White Is Worth Considering:
- Pedigree: White has a proven track record of success, earning All-Pro honors in 2019.
- Experience: His veteran presence and leadership would be valuable to a young Steelers’ secondary.
- Potential Bargain: Due to his recent injury history, White could be available at a lower price than his talent might otherwise command.
The Health Concerns:
- Injury History: White’s recent injury history is a significant concern, and the Steelers would need to be confident in his recovery.
If White can regain his pre-injury form, he would be a steal for the Steelers.
Logical Fits: Addressing Needs with Proven Players
These free agents may not be flashy, but they represent solid players who could address key needs for the Steelers.
Jerome Baker, ILB: A Familiar Face and a Reliable Starter
Jerome Baker, a former Ohio State Buckeye, was a player the Steelers were high on during the draft process. He has developed into a solid starting linebacker for the Miami Dolphins.
Why Baker Makes Sense:
- Athleticism and Coverage Ability: Baker possesses the athleticism and coverage skills to excel in the Steelers’ defensive scheme.
- Familiarity: The Steelers’ coaching staff is familiar with Baker’s game from his time at Ohio State.
- Value Signing: Baker could be a more affordable option compared to other top inside linebackers.
The Injury Concerns:
- Durability: Baker battled a dislocated wrist and an MCL injury last season, raising concerns about his durability.
If healthy, Baker could provide the Steelers with a reliable starter at inside linebacker.
Tyler Boyd, WR: A Hometown Hero and a Reliable Target
Tyler Boyd, a Pittsburgh native, has expressed interest in finishing his career with his hometown team. He would provide the Steelers with a reliable slot receiver and a valuable veteran presence.
Why Boyd Is a Good Fit:
- Consistency: Boyd has consistently produced in the NFL, averaging between 700-800 receiving yards per season.
- Versatility: While primarily a slot receiver, Boyd has the ability to line up outside if needed.
- Leadership: Boyd’s experience and leadership would be beneficial to a young Steelers’ receiving corps.
The Potential Logjam:
- Crowded Wide Receiver Room: The Steelers already have Diontae Johnson and George Pickens at wide receiver, so Boyd’s role might be limited.
Boyd’s familiarity with the Steelers’ organization and his consistent production make him an intriguing option.
D.J. Reader, DT: Solidifying the Defensive Line
D.J. Reader is a dominant run-stuffer who would instantly upgrade the Steelers’ defensive line. His presence would free up T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward to create havoc in the backfield.
Why Reader Is a Difference-Maker:
- Run Defense Specialist: Reader is a force in the middle of the defensive line, capable of clogging running lanes and controlling the line of scrimmage.
- Veteran Presence: His experience and leadership would be valuable to a young Steelers’ defensive line.
- Scheme Fit: Reader’s skillset would complement Cam Heyward and Larry Ogunjobi perfectly.
The Cost Factor:
- High Price Tag: Reader’s market value is estimated at over $14 million per year, a significant investment for the Steelers.
If the Steelers are willing to spend big on a defensive lineman, Reader would be a game-changer.
Brian Allen, C: A Low-Risk Option with Upside
Brian Allen, a former fourth-round pick, has shown promise when healthy but has struggled with injuries throughout his career.
Why Allen Is Worth a Look:
- Potential: When healthy, Allen has shown the ability to be a starting-caliber center in the NFL.
- Value Signing: Due to his injury history, Allen could be available at a discounted price.
- Low Risk: A one-year “prove-it” deal would allow the Steelers to evaluate Allen without a long-term commitment.
The Injury Concerns:
- Durability: Allen’s injury history is a major concern, as he has completed just one full season in his NFL career.
If Allen can stay healthy, he could provide the Steelers with a solid option at center.
Conclusion: Building a Contender
The Steelers have several avenues to improve their roster through free agency. While landing a big-name player like Patrick Queen or Justin Simmons would be a major coup, the Steelers can also find value by targeting undervalued players like C.J. Gardner-Johnson or Tyler Boyd. Ultimately, the Steelers’ success in free agency will depend on their ability to identify players who fit their system and their budget.