Which position must the Steelers still address in free agency before the draft?
The Steelers have had a pretty active free agency, but what moves ought they make before the draft rolls around? There are positions at which they have lost important players, the most notable being a left guard. But do they need to sign an experienced veteran to start, or do they need depth?
Although it feels a bit late for the Steelers to make a splash in free agency, it’s still possible. If we look at guard, for example, you do still have names out there, albeit older ones. But there are certainly names you can bring in to be a starter this year. And even after trading for Michael Pittman Jr., the wide receiver numbers remain thin. They basically have three viable offensive contributors, and even that is arguably pushing it.
Even if the Steelers plan to draft two wide receivers, should they add another one in free agency? Not a starter, of course, as they have their starters, but just a veteran who can add to the room. And with the departures at tight end, that is another position they could address.
But the Steelers have 12 draft picks, and no glaring, gaping holes, so free agency can potentially wait. There will still be veterans available after the draft. Teams will cut others after adding rookies to the mix, as always happens. And even though they don’t currently figure to gain any compensatory picks, it is something they factor in. Waiting would be to their advantage, in that case, if the Steelers signed any qualifying free agents.
Defensively, it’s hard to find an area that still needs addressing with veteran help. The Steelers added a defensive lineman and several defensive backs in free agency. They are already well-stocked at both inside and outside linebacker, so that’s a non-issue.
If I were to narrow it down to just one position, the Steelers could stand to add another offensive lineman in free agency. Ideally, a veteran with starting experience who could compete for a starting job, potentially, but at worst, provide depth. They have Spencer Anderson, and they have the resources to draft a starter-capable rookie.
The Steelers exited the playoffs in the first round yet again, a pattern going back to 2017.With seven consecutive postseason losses and no wins in nearly a decade, they are facing another long, long offseason. No doubt we will see many changes, but none will top Mike Tomlin’s resignation.
The NFL has crowned its latest champion, but for us and the Steelers, we have been in offseason mode. That’s what happens when the team you coverloses by the middle of January all the time, but you’ve been around, so you know that already. Enjoy the ride, even the turbulence, because it’s the only way we know how to travel anymore.
Recommended for you