Omar Khan Tim Gribble
Getty
NFL insider Aaron Wilson reported the Pittsburgh Steelers are expected to expand their scouting department by hiring Tim Gribble.
The Pittsburgh Steelers currently have over $40 million in cap space as they await the start of the NFL’s free agency period, which officially begins on March 11th. After hiring an offensive-minded head coach in former Super Bowl champion Mike McCarthy this offseason, the team could be interested in adding more weapons, especially if future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers returns to Pittsburgh.
One potential free-agent target for the Steelers could be Super Bowl champion wide receiver and kick returner Rashid Shaheed. According to ESPN insider Adam Schefter, the former All-Pro is expected to test free agency after being unable to come close to a contract extension with the Seattle Seahawks.
Rashid Shaheed Could Bring a New Element to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Offense
Seahawks WR Rashid Shaheed
GettyRashid Shaheed returns a kick for a touchdown in the playoffs against the San Francisco 49ers.
With Shaheed set to join the open market, he could have several suitors, which is why the Steelers should be prepared to pay up if they want to bring in the gadget player. Not only does Shaheed have over 1,000 career punt return yards, along with over 1,300 career kick return yards, but he has over 2,400 career scrimmage yards. He can impact the game in a multitude of ways.
If Pittsburgh were able to sign Shaheed, it would have another dynamic player on offense, along with Pro Bowl wide receiver DK Metcalf and tight end Pat Freiermuth. If Rodgers returned to the same offensive system in which he won two MVPs, and with more speed possibly coming in the form of Shaheed, things could improve on offense in the Steel City. Remember, although the Steelers won the AFC North last season, they ranked 25th in total offense.
The Steelers’ Questions on Offense Will Soon Be Answered
Omar Khan
GettyThe upcoming season will be Steelers GM Omar Khan’s 26th with the organization.
Steelers GM Omar Khan and head coach Mike McCarthy have a great opportunity ahead of themselves this offseason. Fresh off a division-winning season, combined with their ample cap space and stack of draft picks, Pittsburgh has a strong chance to win again in 2026. This is especially true if the aforementioned return of Rodgers ultimately comes to fruition.
Remember, the four-time MVP and Super Bowl champion recorded 25 total touchdowns and just seven interceptions last season. He finished ranked in the top 10 of qualified quarterbacks in terms of completions (327) and interception percentage (1.3%). Despite playing in his age-42 season with a fractured wrist, the former Green Bay Packer was a true catalyst for the Steelers when they needed him to be.
Not only could a key free-agent signing at wide receiver be significant for this team, but the same could also be said if Pittsburgh ended up signing a veteran cornerback or addressed the offensive line. While there are plenty of questions surrounding the team still, they can all or mostly be answered with smart decision-making during the free agency period. All eyes will be on Khan, McCarthy, and Co. as they look to build a much-needed title contender this season.