What Would You Do?

[armsteeld]

Really simple. What would you do to the current roster position by position to make it better through releasing guys, signing guys in free agency, and drafting guys in the draft to upgrade your roster. This will be interesting to see. Shall we dance?

QBs

Kenny Pickett-will probably not want to be a backup if he can't be a starter. Backup QB or possible trade.

Mason Rudolph-resign. Challenge for starting position.

Mitch Trubisky -cut.

Adding Russell Wilson through free agency and drafting Joe Milton. Will have a 4 way true competition for starting QB position.

 

RBs

Alfonso Graham-PS.

Najee Harris-sign 5th year. He's my long term answer.

Zander Horvath-PS fullback.

Godwin Igwebuike-kick returner.Retain.

Aaron Shampkin-practice squad player. Will compete for a roster spot. Retain.

Jaylon Warren-long term change of pace RB. Spot starter.

Not really interested in drafting a RB but will sign one or two to compete for 3rd RB spot and/or possible practice squad spot.

 

FBs

Jack Colleto-challenge for roster spot. Converted RB.

Connor Heyward-hybrid FB/TE. Smaller than usual but Smith always has 6'2 TEs in his system even though Heyward is 5'11. Utility FB.

 

WRs

Calvin Austin III-challenge for Slot. Punt returner.

Miles Boykin-solid ST player. Retain.

Marquez Calloway- 6'2 210 big bodied WR who can do it all. Was a solid starter for the Saints. Will challenge for starting Slot. Retain.

Dez Fitzpatrick- 6'2 215 big bodied WR who doesn't have much NFL experience. Will compete for roster spot. Retain.

Keilahn Harris- will compete for roster spot. Retain.

Diontae Johnson- starter. Possible trade candidate for the right price. Willing to trade for a day 2 draft pick.

Denzel Mims- 6'2 207 runs 4.38 and is a field stretcher. Remember Coey Davis with the Titans. Mims is the same type of player. Can excel in this system.

George Pickens- superstar potential but good starting WR. 

Allen Robinson III-cut.

Deuce Watts-compete for roster spot. Retain.

Not signing ant free agents to come in. Not really interested in drafting a WR either. Will sign a couple guys to compete for practice squad.

 

TEs

Pat Freiermuth-has superstar potential but solid receiving TE. Needs to improve blocking. Took pride in his blocking in the 2nd half of the season so that's a positive.

Connor Heyward-hybrid FB/TE. Smaller than usual but Smith always has 6'2 TEs in his system even though Heyward is 5'11. Utility FB.

Darnell Washington-blocking FB who loves to bully defenders. #2 TE with limited use in passing game. Must show he's a threat as a receiver.

Rodney Williams-solid blocker. When given a chance, he showed well. Needs to show more. Roster spot isn't safe. Retain.

Will sign a TE in free agency after the draft. Looking for a udfa to come in and compete for a roster spot.

 

OTs

Spencer Anderson-rookie OT who could play every position on the OL. Promising future.

Tyler Beach-competes for practice squad.

Dylan Cook-Steelers love him. Has great upside.

Kellen Diesch-competes for roster spot.

Devery Hamilton-competes for roster spot.

Anderson Hardy-competes for roster spot.

Broderick Jones-superstar potential.

Dan Moore-inconsistent starter who needs to be challenged for his spot. 

Chukwuma Okarafor-incumbent starter. Will trade for day 2 pick.

Will add competition through free agency and/or the draft.

 

OCs

Mason Cole-incumbent starter. Will compete for starting position. Possible trade or cut depending on who wins starting position. Weakest link in the OL.

Ryan McCollum-practice squad player. Will compete for roster spot.

Will sign or draft a challenger for starting position. 

 

OGs

Spencer Anderson-rookie OL who could play every position on the OL. Promising future.

James Daniels-quality starter.

Joey Fisher-compete for roster spot.

Nate Herbig-backup OL. Will compete for roster spot.

Will add competition through free agency and/or the draft.

 

Ps

Pressley Harvin III-incumbent starter. Will compete for roster spot.

Brad Wing-will compete for starting position.

Will add competition through draft and/or free agency.

 

K

Chris Boswell-quality starter.

 

Let's debate these positions before moving on to the defense.

[JustPlainNasty]

The team is currently 14.5 million over the cap. 

1st two cuts Im making to get back under it are Allen Robinson and Patrick Peterson. That makes you

$2,300,767 UNDER the cap. I don't have interest in Pat P at safety, he doesnt like to tackle. Hell id rather bring back Joe Haden.

 

There are many other big considerations none of which really include paying any qb more than 10 million/yr. There is gonna be a boatload of shuffling contracts and players. 

Other big plays are Chuks and Mason Cole. It would be nice to be able to get something for Chuks but with this years draft class being so thick at the position that opportunity is lessened significantly. He is due a $4million roster bonus on 3/17 which is 4 days after the start of the new league year and free agency. You could use the cap space to make any moves and releasing him frees 8.8 million. Id imagine they just release him as its hard to imagine that the relationship/trust between coach and players is not damaged beyond repair. I cant think of too many starters that have been put out in Tomlin's dog house like Chuks has. 

Cole...releasing him saves 4.75 million on the cap and he is due a roster bonus on 3/17. The only real concern here is the Steelers would not typically go into a draft bare at a position. Nate Herbig is not really a solution and Im not sure he should even make the roster / be kept around. Nate is a likeable guy but is very replaceable on the field. They havent really experimented or worked with Daniels there to my knowledge. Spencer Anderson is a possibility but he hasnt had any work and none of these solutions screams starter possibility and would be considered a weakness or a glaring hole going into the draft. Mason Cole doesnt seem to offer any position flexibility in that he gets pushed around quite a bit inside so hed be a weakness at guard and I wouldn't expect him to cover outside even though he played there some at Michigan. So if you release him are you signing somebody and what are you paying them? 

James Daniels on last year of his deal...

I guess the next big play is negotiating with Mason on a 2yr $18 million deal with 10-12 guaranteed. You're probably not gonna cut Mitch until that is wrapped up, but I would. I feel like Mitch is kind of a drag on the team as he isn't "just happy to be here" and pretty much regrets coming as he doesn't really prescribe to what Tomlin is selling. If they don't sign Mason then maybe they're offering Tannehill a similar deal, not saying hes a great answer but you need a quality backup. IDK.  I would say of all the outside QB scenarios that everybody fantasizes about I would be interested in Fields for a 2nd possibly but I think Atlanta would be crazy not to offer their 2nd. Based on what Ive seen two guys in the draft intrigue me if they could be had in the 3rd or 4th rounds : Spencer Rattler & Jordan Travis (Travis' play reminds me of Fields). 

I wonder if Mason would consider the Jets as an option to backup Rodgers and have a shot to take over when Rodgers steps away or injury. You can heal as fast as you want but Achilles is one of those funny injuries that never seems to be quite right or go away it seems and at 40 years old and just two years left. Woody Johnson had an interview last not exclaiming that they didnt have a back up QB. 

 

Edited February 9 by JustPlainNasty

[rlon]

I’d cut Robinson, Peterson, Chucks (trading for a day 2 pick would be a dream, but it’s doubtful), Cole, and Trubiski. I’d extend Heyward so he doesn’t lose face when the Steelers at least 6 mill on this year’s cap. This would put us at roughly 27 million under the cap…

Then, I’ll start with a less important question out of curiosity….can Denzel Mims contribute on special teams? Does he give us any value there?

And another special teams question…can we upgrade our punter and returner? I’m disappointed in Austin…won’t even elaborate on the punter.

I’d extend Daniels now. 

I would not pay Rudolph anywhere near 9 million per year. Maybe 6 at most. Not sold on the Mason theme, maybe if we somehow morph into the best pass blocking line of all time.As for Pickett, while I like him more than most, he’d make a good backup if it were to play out that way. Who cares if he doesn’t want to be a backup? If he doesn’t take a step forward, I do still think he’d make a good one in relief. One vet signing and a project draft pick are likely at the position. Fields, Wilson, and Cousins have absolutely no appeal to me.

I would not get rid of DJ before seeing him in the new offense, but I’d love to rep him more in the slot depending on who we draft. Go forward…

I’d let all the LBers, including Kwon (sign on the cheap), have the opportunity to come back to where they were, while targeting a player in the draft that eclipses all of their athleticism and coverage potential.

Secondary is the toughest situation to figure out. I too don’t want a safety that can’t tackle. I don’t see the value in keeping Peterson unless it’s for the minimum, which isn’t going to happen. I feel it unsettling necessary to sign Wallace, but definitely not at starter money if it happens. At corner, I pray for Trice and one of those athletic upside reclamation projects, Rush or Barnes, to ripen. But, can we afford to take such a chance on youth here and across the CB position?
 

We need an upgrade at safety, but starting off with Minkah, Neal, Kazee, Thompson, and Rowe (would need to be signed) isn’t too bad. I would not pay Killibrew what he is going to get on the open market and as he has little to no positional value. The upgrade to pair with Minkah can come from free agency or the draft. I want McKinney. And, after we sign him, I’d rely on camp competition to see whether it’s Neal or Kazee (or both) that gets cut later and for some financial savings. Kazee is a marked man…

Lastly, and not until the 2025 offseason, I’d consider trading Highsmith. I expect Herbig to be someone who can’t be kept off the field.

 

 

 

 

Edited February 9 by rlon

[JustPlainNasty]

The Rudolph deal would be something like an 6-8 million signing bonus with 8-10 million guaranteed and cost like 6-8 against this years cap. If he amounts to more than the backup you could sign him to longer next year. Something like that..Id bet anything he gets paid at least what Trubisky made this year around 7.5 million to 8 million

 Mitchell Trubisky signed a 2 year, $14,285,000 contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers, including a $5,250,000 signing bonus, $5,250,000 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $7,142,500. In 2024, Trubisky will earn a base salary of $4,250,000 and a roster bonus of $1,000,000, while carrying a cap hit of $7,556,666 and a dead cap value of $4,613,333.

Mitchell Trubisky signed a 2 year, $11,250,000 contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers, including a $6,920,000 signing bonus, $8,000,000 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $5,625,000. In 2024, Trubisky will earn a base salary of $4,250,000 and a roster bonus of $1,000,000, while carrying a cap hit of $7,556,666 and a dead cap value of $4,613,333.

No way am I signing for less than those numbers and more so the initial deal. Im the last guy fanboying Mason, but he has proven to be waayyyy more deserving than Mitch and he is going to garner decent backup interest at worst. Like I stated the Jets & Giants off the top are gonna be looking for a legit backup. Maybe you could cut 2 million off the total , but theres gonna be interest just that most of it wont be starter interest. 

[mwalker]

31 minutes ago, rlon said:

I’d cut Robinson, Peterson, Chucks (trading for a day 2 pick would be a dream, but it’s doubtful), Cole, and Trubiski. I’d extend Heyward so he doesn’t lose face when the Steelers at least 6 mill on this year’s cap. This would put us at roughly 27 million under the cap…

Then, I’ll start with a less important question out of curiosity….can Denzel Mims contribute on special teams? Does he give us any value there?

And another special teams question…can we upgrade our punter and returner? I’m disappointed in Austin…won’t even elaborate on the punter.

I’d extend Daniels now. 

I would not pay Rudolph anywhere near 9 million per year. Maybe 6 at most. Not sold on the Mason theme, maybe if we somehow morph into the best pass blocking line of all time.As for Pickett, while I like him more than most, he’d make a good backup if it were to play out that way. Who cares if he doesn’t want to be a backup? If he doesn’t take a step forward, I do still think he’d make a good one in relief. One vet signing and a project draft pick are likely at the position. Fields, Wilson, and Cousins have absolutely no appeal to me.

I would not get rid of DJ before seeing him in the new offense, but I’d love to rep him more in the slot depending on who we draft. Go forward…

I’d let all the LBers, including Kwon (sign on the cheap), have the opportunity to come back to where they were, while targeting a player in the draft that eclipses all of their athleticism and coverage potential.

Secondary is the toughest situation to figure out. I too don’t want a safety that can’t tackle. I don’t see the value in keeping Peterson unless it’s for the minimum, which isn’t going to happen. I feel it unsettling necessary to sign Wallace, but definitely not at starter money if it happens. At corner, I pray for Trice and one of those athletic upside reclamation projects, Rush or Barnes, to ripen. But, can we afford to take such a chance on youth here and across the CB position?
 

We need an upgrade at safety, but starting off with Minkah, Neal, Kazee, Thompson, and Rowe (would need to be signed) isn’t too bad. I would not pay Killibrew what he is going to get on the open market and as he has little to no positional value. The upgrade to pair with Minkah can come from free agency or the draft. I want McKinney. And, after we sign him, I’d rely on camp competition to see whether it’s Neal or Kazee (or both) that gets cut later and for some financial savings. Kazee is a marked man…

Lastly, and not until the 2025 offseason, I’d consider trading Highsmith. I expect Herbig to be someone who can’t be kept off the field.

 

 

 

 

I agree with so much here.
Too lazy to type out all those points.

I guess the one place I'm not 100% aligned, is trading Highsmith.

But good stuff.

 

[JustPlainNasty]

I also WOULD NOT resign Wallace. My #1 target in free agency is some kind of mid to upper level corner even if we just get a good nickel which actually my #2 need for this team behind center. 

There was nothing redeemable about Wallace's play. 

 

[Steeler Hitman]

17 hours ago, armsteeld said:

Really simple. What would you do to the current roster position by position to make it better through releasing guys, signing guys in free agency, and drafting guys in the draft to upgrade your roster. This will be interesting to see. Shall we dance?

It appears that great off season minds think alike.  I was thinking about posting the same thing, but will just add my stuff/comments/thoughts to yours. I have been working on this in between doing some other football related stuff. 

QBs

Kenny Pickett-will probably not want to be a backup if he can't be a starter. Backup QB or possible trade.

I think it was somewhat unfair to expect Pickett to come in and be much more than he was based on his circumstances. I said when he was drafted that the Steelers should let him sit and watch his entire rookie season. They needed to resist the urge to put him in despite fan pressure of him being a #1 draft choice. Unfortunately, Mitch under-performed and they lost confidence in Mason. What Pickett lacks in arm talent, high end skills, and high end mobility that many fans want, he makes up in character, maturity and work-ethic. I expect him to bounce back with a vengeance. Get him some blocking up front, a rushing attack, some creative plays, and the team working together to execute, and he will be fine. I predict that he will be QB1.

Mason Rudolph-resign. Challenge for starting position.

Agree. Very happy to see Mason bounce back from his adversity. He's another  guy who took some time to develop. He even sat behind Ben a few years before being thrust into the starting role in 2019. I hope he's re-signed here. He would be an under-rated priority for me.

Mitch Trubisky -cut.

I tried to support Mitch when he was signed, but never liked the signing. I hoped he would have gotten better, but just not a good fit here.

Adding Russell Wilson through free agency and drafting Joe Milton. Will have a 4 way true competition for starting QB position.

I would consider Russell if Mason left and the $$$ was right. I just don't see him as an answer at QB and his arrow is going down. Another case of having an aged veteran like Ben, who is on the downside. Good thing is he would/should be a serviceable back-up. However, I don't think he wants to be or sees himself as a back-up here.

My guy would be Carson Wentz. He's a former starter and like Mason has gotten a bit of a raw deal after almost being league MVP before an injury. He had a TD to INT ratio of 27-7 in Indianapolis. He struggled in Washington, but who doesn't.  As a #3, he would be solid. He's a high character guy and still has surprising mobility despite being a big guy. He is a pretty solid #3. I could see him doing a Mason if things got bad and he had to play.

RBs

Alfonso Graham-PS. Zander Horvath-PS fullback.Aaron Shampkin-practice squad player. Will compete for a roster spot. Retain.

Najee Harris-sign 5th year. He's my long term answer.

I am in the minority, but I love Najee. I think he is solid and I also see maturity and an opportunity to be a leader for the offense.

Godwin Igwebuike-kick returner.Retain.

Love this guy. He essentially knocked McFarland onto the PS and now into the USFL. Good special teams and underrated runner. Had a good game against the Steelers in 2021 when they tied the Lions. 

Jaylon Warren-long term change of pace RB. Spot starter.

I consider Jalen a 1B more than a #2.  He does some things that Najee is not built for and yet can be an integral part of the offense. Hopefully Arthur Smith will teach the Steelers how to run an effective screen play and get rid of the behind the LOS dump-off that never worked.

Not really interested in drafting a RB but will sign one or two to compete for 3rd RB spot and/or possible practice squad spot.

I love Igwebuike, but would try to sign a veteran for competition or draft a player who we hope could be an Isiah Pacheco type for this offense and draft.

FBs

Jack Colleto-challenge for roster spot. Converted RB.

Connor Heyward-hybrid FB/TE. Smaller than usual but Smith always has 6'2 TEs in his system even though Heyward is 5'11. Utility FB.

I think he gets moved to FB/H-Back similar to when the Steelers had DJ )David Johnson) back in 2010. I think Conner is a better overall FB/H-Back. He's not the big thunderous blocker though.

WRs

Calvin Austin III-challenge for Slot. Punt returner.

Could benefit from the change of OC. Not that Arthur Smith's offense is big on these smaller gadget play type players, but I think Austin could be a much more explosive weapon than he was under the previous offense.

Miles Boykin-solid ST player. Retain.

Strictly as special team player in my book. He is a solid blocker which could help him, but would prefer an upgrade at the positiom.

Marquez Calloway- 6'2 210 big bodied WR who can do it all. Was a solid starter for the Saints. Will challenge for starting Slot. Retain.

Dez Fitzpatrick- 6'2 215 big bodied WR who doesn't have much NFL experience. Will compete for roster spot. Retain.

Keilahn Harris- will compete for roster spot. Retain.

Diontae Johnson- starter. Possible trade candidate for the right price. Willing to trade for a day 2 draft pick.

I wouldn't trade him for less than a third maybe a 4 and 5. He is still the best route runner and could be better with a better WR coach and scheme. The last WR coach did not help Johnson's production. He's a big reason that I think Fishman Jackson was not retained.

Denzel Mims- 6'2 207 runs 4.38 and is a field stretcher. Remember Corey Davis with the Titans. Mims is the same type of player. Can excel in this system.

I forgot about him. Wow. He was actually decent for the Jets for a while. Could be that #3 guy we need to replace ARob.

George Pickens- superstar potential but good starting WR. 

That's your WR1. Need someone to help get his game under control, mature, and take him to the next level. This guy can be a top 5 WR in the entire NFL if he develops and matures. The physical is there.

Allen Robinson III-cut.

Too much money and not enough production.

Deuce Watts-compete for roster spot. Retain.

Not signing any free agents to come in. Not really interested in drafting a WR either. Will sign a couple guys to compete for practice squad.

 I am going to look at bringing in a potential #3 and #4. I forgot about Mims and perhaps he is an answer to one of those two positions:

WR1 - Pickens

WR2- Dionte

WR3-  Austin or Free Agent

WR4- Mims or Austin

WR5- Boykin/free agent or draft
 

TEs

Pat Freiermuth- Has superstar potential but solid receiving TE. Needs to improve blocking. Took pride in his blocking in the 2nd half of the season so that's a positive.

Muth's health and blocking is keeping him from elevating to the next level.  He's a solid receiver, but not a great one. I like Muth's potential, but his health is a concern.

Connor Heyward-hybrid FB/TE. Smaller than usual but Smith always has 6'2 TEs in his system even though Heyward is 5'11. Utility FB.

Moved to FB/H-Back

Darnell Washington-blocking FB who loves to bully defenders. #2 TE with limited use in passing game. Must show he's a threat as a receiver.

Poorly used last year. I think he can be a solid intermediate and short receiver at TE. Best blocking TE on the roster. He needs to get stronger and improve his technique. Easy remedies because he's a willing blocker.  Time to expand and elevate his game.

Rodney Williams-solid blocker. When given a chance, he showed well. Needs to show more. Roster spot isn't safe. Retain.

Has potential to be more than a JAG.  He could retain a spot if he improves his blocking.

Will sign a TE in free agency after the draft. Looking for a udfa to come in and compete for a roster spot.

I am getting a blocking type as opposed to a receiver. Although, I think Noah Fant is a free agent. He is a solid all around TE and he is a better than average receiving TE. Not sure what he would command salary wise, but TE would be a strength with Muth, Washington, and Fant.

OTs

Spencer Anderson-rookie OT who could play every position on the OL. Promising future.

Love him as a back-up. Just hope he continues to get stronger and better. Putting him at guard.

Tyler Beach-competes for practice squad.

Dylan Cook-Steelers love him. Has great upside.

I'm drafting a OT, so he is probably on PS or someone else's team.

Kellen Diesch-competes for roster spot.

Devery Hamilton-competes for roster spot.

Anderson Hardy-competes for roster spot.

Broderick Jones-superstar potential.

Depending on who I can add, I am trying to move him to LT this season. No more protecting Dan Moore's lack of versatility.

Dan Moore-inconsistent starter who needs to be challenged for his spot. 

He makes it because of his tenacity and I hope he becomes more versatile, because he should become the swing guy.

Chukwuma Okarafor-incumbent starter. Will trade for day 2 pick.

Or let go outright.  Time to move on.

Will add competition through free agency and/or the draft.

I would double dip in free agency and the draft to get better. They need a veteran to replace Chuks and a developmental/future starter.

Maybe sign Donovan Smith or Trent Brown and draft a OT in the first three rounds.

OCs

Mason Cole-incumbent starter. Will compete for starting position. Possible trade or cut depending on who wins starting position. Weakest link in the OL.

I like Mason as a teammate, but his play declined and I am moving on. I cut him.

Ryan McCollum-practice squad player. Will compete for roster spot.

JAG

Will sign or draft a challenger for starting position. 

I sign Biadasz or Cushenberry as a stop-gap Center.

OGs

Spencer Anderson-rookie OL who could play every position on the OL. Promising future.

See above. He is versatile and I see him as a flexible back-up.

James Daniels-quality starter.

Yep. I hope he starts fast.

Joey Fisher-compete for roster spot.

Nate Herbig-backup OL. Will compete for roster spot.

With Spencer, I feel good about my back-up OG's.

Will add competition through free agency and/or the draft.

Not a huge priority for adding, but my hope is my new back=up center has flexibility. Drafting JPP, Frazier, or Van Pran are a must. Right now JPP would be my #1 pick and center is fixed for 10-12 years.
 

Punters

Pressley Harvin III-incumbent starter. Will compete for roster spot.

My biggest disappointment. Man, why can't the Steelers nail a consistent punter. A great holder and bad punter won't cut it on the roster. He needs a change of scenery and Pittsburgh needs a consistent punter. I let him compete, but I have little faith he wins. He has been too inconsistent.

Brad Wing-will compete for starting position.

Would bring him in as competition. Maybe better than Percy, but ideally, not what I really want.

Will add competition through draft and/or free agency.

I am going to draft one of the big college legs and try again. I won't spend a pick before the sixth round though. I saw Ryan Rehkow from BYU at the Senior Bowl and people are also talking about Iowa's Tory Taylor as a possible fit. I want Ray Guy or Darren Bennett. I want someone with a booming leg. I thought that was Sepulveda and then Percy.....

K

Chris Boswell-quality starter.

Probably the Steelers best PK of all time. He beats Roy Gerilla, Chris Bahr,  Dave Trout, Jeff Reed, or Shaun Suisham.

Let's debate these positions before moving on to the defense.

Fire away with comments. To summarize:

I want to build the trenches at Center and OT. Draft both and sign a free agent at both.

Get a veteran third QB behind Kenny and Mason. I like Carson Wentz in that role.

Add a WR to replace ARob and potentially draft a young guy.

Add a TE. I am intrigued by Noah Fant (ironically the player the Steelers probably draft if they don't trade up for ILB Devan Bush).

Happy with Najee and Jalen as the staring RB and moving Connor to FB. Keeping Igwebuike as KOR and potential RB3.

 

[armsteeld]

50 minutes ago, Steeler Hitman said:

 

Expand on it as much as possible. I enjoy the various views of our team and how to build upon it. 

[3rivers]

I can't get into all the details, but:

chuks - trade

cole - trade or cut. Move Daniels to C if they have to but draft C early

Moore - trade since he can't be a swing OT and isn't a starter

not sure about Muth, I'm not a fan but hey will sign him. He doesn't block, so maybe Smith will get the point across?

KP - never got a fair chance with canada and this OL. Not sure about him , but mitch better be cut first day of the season . They can keep KP and see how it goes  but this year will be his chance. 

Get OT in RD1 or possibly C but I expect C in RD2

Get a WR in UFA , cut mitch an peterson and sign a good vet or get on in the draft mid rounds. I still prefer Sneed as UFA #1

 

 

[Steeler Hitman]

11 hours ago, armsteeld said:

Expand on it as much as possible. I enjoy the various views of our team and how to build upon it. 

Defense: How to get the most out of the most expensive defense in the NFL.

Defensive Line - - needs some help. Cam is older, but they need to look at replacement for the future.

Montravius Adams - - Under-appreciated NG. I think that he plays better than given credit. I would actually like a bigger more stout NG or DT to team with Benton inside. He does not do much as a pass rusher. But someone who I feel is a better as a back-up than starter.

Keeanu Benton - - Looks like a star in the making as a rookie. Starter and will get better as he matures, gets stronger, and learns.

Cam Heyward - - A great veteran, but needs to be on a snap count and needs some better quality help around him. Upper side of 34, so we need his replacement to be drafted.

DeMarvin Leal - - Looking like a bad pick. He was a player who didn't have a position. He looks like a 4-3 DE type, but has found himself in the Steelers fans and Coach Tomlin doghouse.

Isaiahh Loudermilk- - Young player who actually improved and has some ability to be decent, but not spectacular.

Larry Ogunjobi - - I loved the signing initially, but his play regressed. Maybe in part of Cam being hurt and for his salary I wonder if the juice is worth the squeeze. I would probably cut and sign two decent players for his salary as insurance; Quentin Jefferson and Jonathan Bullard.

Armon Watts - - Not a bad back-up but shades of a very poor man's Chris Wormsley.

I would look to draft an IDL like Myles Murphy, Khristian Boyd, or Justin Rogers. I also like Logan Lee from Iowa and these are players who are going to most likely be day three picks.

Base DE: Cam, Loudermilk, Lee

Base NG: Benton, Murphy, Adams

Base DE: Jefferson, Bullard

OLB - - We are pretty set here.

Marcus Golden - - Solid back-up and was everything that I hoped Bud Dupree would have been in that role.

Nasty Nick Herbig - - Looking like the next generation in Steelers OLB's.

Alex Highsmith - - Sacks were down as teams schemed differently, but still gives the Steelers one of the best one - two punches at OLB

TJ Watt - - Keep him healthy and let him reek havoc on offenses. Should be a unanimous Defensive MVP.

LOLB - - Watt and Golden

ROLB - - Highsmith and Herbig

Bring in a free agent guy or two, but I don't expect anyone to crack this lineup.

ILB - - Could use some speed and the ability to cover TE's and RB's. Health was an issue with long term injuries and patchwork fill-ins.

Kwon Alexander - - He was a thumper and could cover. Probably the most under-rated injury on defense last year. Health a concern, but I sign him and let him compete. He is a competitor.

Cole Holcomb - - Got injured just as he was coming into his own. Hopefully healthy and can regain starting caliber play.

Elandon Roberts - - Solid and dirty type of Steeler LB. He needs to be on a snap count. Injuries mounting, but was the glue in 2023.

Myles Jack, Blake Martinez, Mark Robinson, Jaylon Smith, Mykal Walker are all cuts.

Free Agency: I am signing one of two players: Isaiah Simmons or Shaq Leonard.  The ILB position was only a weakness due to injuries. Simmons and Leonard offer the ability to cover TE and RB and offer a blow for Holcomb, Roberts, and Kwon. That would be a pretty solid veteran group of ILB's. Not high star power, but high production and intelligence. Simmons or Leonard allow better coverage as teams killed the Steelers when any of the first three (Holcomb, Roberts and Kwon).

ILB1 - - Holcomb and Alexander

ILB2 - - Roberts and Simmons or Leonard

Secondary

 

Upgrading the back end of the defense on the outside and in the middle would help the Steelers defense tremendously.  Teams attacked the Steelers deep and with the TE. Patrick Peterson, Levi Wallace, Chandon Sullivan, and James Pierre are all players the Steelers can and should upgrade on the outside. 

Young players Corey Trice and Darius Rush are hopefuls, but unknowns. 

Joey Porter Jr. looks like he has the potential to be something special for the Steelers.  

What is needed is a  CB1B and a slot corner.  Chandon Sullivan improved as the season progressed but was not special.  If this defense is going to improve, the play at CB must get better and more consistent. 

At safety, Minkah Fitzpatrick played out of position and was essentially hurt all season. Getting Minkah back to being able to be a traditional free safety instead of playing in the box would go a long way towards improving the back end.

Eric Rowe looked really good filling in off of the PS. I would resign him. Seems like a great rotational piece and fit the defensive scheme.

 

Health has been an issue as well  at safety.  Both Keeanu Neal and Damonte Kazee got hurt and/or suspended respectively. Neither lit it up and in fact made me long for the consistent yet unspectacular play for T. Edmunds.

Triston Thompson made some plays and was actually more impressive than Neal and Kazee in my opinion. He was hurt at times as well.

Patrick Peterson also played some safety and may have found a role there.  My issue is he is being paid like a CB2 and really didn't play that role. Consistent tackling was an issue. Would be more a FS than SS and the Steelers have Minkah. Would be too expensive as merely a back-up.

Elijah Riley is a scrappy back-up but is limited

Miles Killebrew is strictly a special teams ace.

How do I fix this secondary? I am going to make getting a CB1B and SS1 a priority.  In a perfect world this will come by via free agency.  Most don’t like hearing spending more $$$ on the most expensive defense in the NFL, but with a few tweaks it can really pay-off in the end and redistribute the $$$.

I am going to try to sign Jaylon Johnson if the Bears don’t tag him. If they do, I am all over L’Jarius Sneed.  

JPJ and Johnson or Sneed would give the Steelers their best set of CB’s in quite a long time. 

Next, I would consider signing an in the box type of safety that won’t break the bank.  My options would be bringing T. Edmunds back or signing Jeremy Chinn.  This allows Minkah to play traditional FS where he actually excels.

I would love to sign Kyle Dugger, but in signing a top CB and with having some of the other $$$ tied up on defense, it would be too expensive to get a top CB and SS in free agency. I prefer spending for a CB1B over SS1.

 

I would look to draft a slot CB. If that is not foreseeable, then look to sign Shaq Griffin.  He is a former starter and has some skills and flexibility.

CB1A - - Joey Porter Jr., Darius Rush

CB1B- - Jaylon Johnson or L’Jarius Sneed, Corey Trice

Slot - - Draft or Shaq Griffin

FS - - Minkah Fitzpatrick, Triston Thompson

SS - - T. Edmunds or Jeremy Chinn, Eric Rowe,  Miles Killebrew

 

 

 

[armsteeld]

47 minutes ago, Steeler Hitman said:

Defense: How to get the most out of the most expensive defense in the NFL.

Defensive Line - - needs some help. Cam is older, but they need to look at replacement for the future.

 

Montravius Adams - - Under-appreciated NG. I think that he plays better than given credit. I would actually like a bigger more stout NG or DT to team with Benton inside. He does not do much as a pass rusher. But someone who I feel is a better as a back-up than starter.

 

Keeanu Benton - - Looks like a star in the making as a rookie. Starter and will get better as he matures, gets stronger, and learns.

 

Cam Heyward - - A great veteran, but needs to be on a snap count and needs some better quality help around him. Upper side of 34, so we need his replacement to be drafted.

 

DeMarvin Leal - - Looking like a bad pick. He was a player who didn't have a position. He looks like a 4-3 DE type, but has found himself in the Steelers fans and Coach Tomlin doghouse.

 

Isaiahh Loudermilk- - Young player who actually improved and has some ability to be decent, but not spectacular.

 

Larry Ogunjobi - - I loved the signing initially, but his play regressed. Maybe in part of Cam being hurt and for his salary I wonder if the juice is worth the squeeze. I would probably cut and sign two decent players for his salary as insurance; Quentin Jefferson and Jonathan Bullard.

 

Armon Watts - - Not a bad back-up but shades of a very poor man's Chris Wormsley.

 

I would look to draft an IDL like Myles Murphy, Khristian Boyd, or Justin Rogers. I also like Logan Lee from Iowa and these are players who are going to most likely be day three picks.

 

Base DE: Cam, Loudermilk, Lee

 

Base NG: Benton, Murphy, Adams

 

Base DE: Jefferson, Bullard

 

OLB - - We are pretty set here.

 

Marcus Golden - - Solid back-up and was everything that I hoped Bud Dupree would have been in that role.

 

Nasty Nick Herbig - - Looking like the next generation in Steelers OLB's.

 

Alex Highsmith - - Sacks were down as teams schemed differently, but still gives the Steelers one of the best one - two punches at OLB

 

TJ Watt - - Keep him healthy and let him reek havoc on offenses. Should be a unanimous Defensive MVP.

LOLB - - Watt and Golden

ROLB - - Highsmith and Herbig

 

Bring in a free agent guy or two, but I don't expect anyone to crack this lineup.

 

ILB - - Could use some speed and the ability to cover TE's and RB's. Health was an issue with long term injuries and patchwork fill-ins.

 

Kwon Alexander - - He was a thumper and could cover. Probably the most under-rated injury on defense last year. Health a concern, but I sign him and let him compete. He is a competitor.

 

Cole Holcomb - - Got injured just as he was coming into his own. Hopefully healthy and can regain starting caliber play.

 

Elandon Roberts - - Solid and dirty type of Steeler LB. He needs to be on a snap count. Injuries mounting, but was the glue in 2023.

 

Myles Jack, Blake Martinez, Mark Robinson, Jaylon Smith, Mykal Walker are all cuts.

 

Free Agency: I am signing one of two players: Isaiah Simmons or Shaq Leonard.  The ILB position was only a weakness due to injuries. Simmons and Leonard offer the ability to cover TE and RB and offer a blow for Holcomb, Roberts, and Kwon. That would be a pretty solid veteran group of ILB's. Not high star power, but high production and intelligence. Simmons or Leonard allow better coverage as teams killed the Steelers when any of the first three (Holcomb, Roberts and Kwon).

ILB1 - - Holcomb and Alexander

ILB2 - - Roberts and Simmons or Leonard

 

 

Secondary

 

 

 

Upgrading the back end of the defense on the outside and in the middle would help the Steelers defense tremendously.  Teams attacked the Steelers deep and with the TE. Patrick Peterson, Levi Wallace, Chandon Sullivan, and James Pierre are all players the Steelers can and should upgrade on the outside. 

Young players Corey Trice and Darius Rush are hopefuls, but unknowns. 

Joey Porter Jr. looks like he has the potential to be something special for the Steelers.  

What is needed is a  CB1B and a slot corner.  Chandon Sullivan improved as the season progressed but was not special.  If this defense is going to improve, the play at CB must get better and more consistent. 

 

At safety, Minkah Fitzpatrick played out of position and was essentially hurt all season. Getting Minkah back to being able to be a traditional free safety instead of playing in the box would go a long way towards improving the back end.

Eric Rowe looked really good filling in off of the PS. I would resign him. Seems like a great rotational piece and fit the defensive scheme.

 

 

 

Health has been an issue as well  at safety.  Both Keeanu Neal and Damonte Kazee got hurt and/or suspended respectively. Neither lit it up and in fact made me long for the consistent yet unspectacular play for T. Edmunds.

Triston Thompson made some plays and was actually more impressive than Neal and Kazee in my opinion. He was hurt at times as well.

Patrick Peterson also played some safety and may have found a role there.  My issue is he is being paid like a CB2 and really didn't play that role. Consistent tackling was an issue. Would be more a FS than SS and the Steelers have Minkah. Would be too expensive as merely a back-up.

Elijah Riley is a scrappy back-up but is limited

Miles Killebrew is strictly a special teams ace.

 

How do I fix this secondary? I am going to make getting a CB1B and SS1 a priority.  In a perfect world this will come by via free agency.  Most don’t like hearing spending more $$$ on the most expensive defense in the NFL, but with a few tweaks it can really pay-off in the end and redistribute the $$$.

I am going to try to sign Jaylon Johnson if the Bears don’t tag him. If they do, I am all over L’Jarius Sneed.  

JPJ and Johnson or Sneed would give the Steelers their best set of CB’s in quite a long time. 

Next, I would consider signing an in the box type of safety that won’t break the bank.  My options would be bringing T. Edmunds back or signing Jeremy Chinn.  This allows Minkah to play traditional FS where he actually excels.

I would love to sign Kyle Dugger, but in signing a top CB and with having some of the other $$$ tied up on defense, it would be too expensive to get a top CB and SS in free agency. I prefer spending for a CB1B over SS1.

 

 

 

I would look to draft a slot CB. If that is not foreseeable, then look to sign Shaq Griffin.  He is a former starter and has some skills and flexibility.

 

 

CB1A - - Joey Porter Jr., Darius Rush

 

CB1B- - Jaylon Johnson or L’Jarius Sneed, Corey Trice

 

Slot - - Draft or Shaq Griffin

 

FS - - Minkah Fitzpatrick, Triston Thompson

 

SS - - T. Edmunds or Jeremy Chinn, Eric Rowe,  Miles Killebrew

 

 

 

 

 

 

Excellent breakdown and analysis! 

[rlon]

2 hours ago, Steeler Hitman said:

Defense: How to get the most out of the most expensive defense in the NFL.

Defensive Line - - needs some help. Cam is older, but they need to look at replacement for the future.

 

Montravius Adams - - Under-appreciated NG. I think that he plays better than given credit. I would actually like a bigger more stout NG or DT to team with Benton inside. He does not do much as a pass rusher. But someone who I feel is a better as a back-up than starter.

 

Keeanu Benton - - Looks like a star in the making as a rookie. Starter and will get better as he matures, gets stronger, and learns.

 

Cam Heyward - - A great veteran, but needs to be on a snap count and needs some better quality help around him. Upper side of 34, so we need his replacement to be drafted.

 

DeMarvin Leal - - Looking like a bad pick. He was a player who didn't have a position. He looks like a 4-3 DE type, but has found himself in the Steelers fans and Coach Tomlin doghouse.

 

Isaiahh Loudermilk- - Young player who actually improved and has some ability to be decent, but not spectacular.

 

Larry Ogunjobi - - I loved the signing initially, but his play regressed. Maybe in part of Cam being hurt and for his salary I wonder if the juice is worth the squeeze. I would probably cut and sign two decent players for his salary as insurance; Quentin Jefferson and Jonathan Bullard.

 

Armon Watts - - Not a bad back-up but shades of a very poor man's Chris Wormsley.

 

I would look to draft an IDL like Myles Murphy, Khristian Boyd, or Justin Rogers. I also like Logan Lee from Iowa and these are players who are going to most likely be day three picks.

 

Base DE: Cam, Loudermilk, Lee

 

Base NG: Benton, Murphy, Adams

 

Base DE: Jefferson, Bullard

 

OLB - - We are pretty set here.

 

Marcus Golden - - Solid back-up and was everything that I hoped Bud Dupree would have been in that role.

 

Nasty Nick Herbig - - Looking like the next generation in Steelers OLB's.

 

Alex Highsmith - - Sacks were down as teams schemed differently, but still gives the Steelers one of the best one - two punches at OLB

 

TJ Watt - - Keep him healthy and let him reek havoc on offenses. Should be a unanimous Defensive MVP.

LOLB - - Watt and Golden

ROLB - - Highsmith and Herbig

 

Bring in a free agent guy or two, but I don't expect anyone to crack this lineup.

 

ILB - - Could use some speed and the ability to cover TE's and RB's. Health was an issue with long term injuries and patchwork fill-ins.

 

Kwon Alexander - - He was a thumper and could cover. Probably the most under-rated injury on defense last year. Health a concern, but I sign him and let him compete. He is a competitor.

 

Cole Holcomb - - Got injured just as he was coming into his own. Hopefully healthy and can regain starting caliber play.

 

Elandon Roberts - - Solid and dirty type of Steeler LB. He needs to be on a snap count. Injuries mounting, but was the glue in 2023.

 

Myles Jack, Blake Martinez, Mark Robinson, Jaylon Smith, Mykal Walker are all cuts.

 

Free Agency: I am signing one of two players: Isaiah Simmons or Shaq Leonard.  The ILB position was only a weakness due to injuries. Simmons and Leonard offer the ability to cover TE and RB and offer a blow for Holcomb, Roberts, and Kwon. That would be a pretty solid veteran group of ILB's. Not high star power, but high production and intelligence. Simmons or Leonard allow better coverage as teams killed the Steelers when any of the first three (Holcomb, Roberts and Kwon).

ILB1 - - Holcomb and Alexander

ILB2 - - Roberts and Simmons or Leonard

 

 

Secondary

 

 

 

Upgrading the back end of the defense on the outside and in the middle would help the Steelers defense tremendously.  Teams attacked the Steelers deep and with the TE. Patrick Peterson, Levi Wallace, Chandon Sullivan, and James Pierre are all players the Steelers can and should upgrade on the outside. 

Young players Corey Trice and Darius Rush are hopefuls, but unknowns. 

Joey Porter Jr. looks like he has the potential to be something special for the Steelers.  

What is needed is a  CB1B and a slot corner.  Chandon Sullivan improved as the season progressed but was not special.  If this defense is going to improve, the play at CB must get better and more consistent. 

 

At safety, Minkah Fitzpatrick played out of position and was essentially hurt all season. Getting Minkah back to being able to be a traditional free safety instead of playing in the box would go a long way towards improving the back end.

Eric Rowe looked really good filling in off of the PS. I would resign him. Seems like a great rotational piece and fit the defensive scheme.

 

 

 

Health has been an issue as well  at safety.  Both Keeanu Neal and Damonte Kazee got hurt and/or suspended respectively. Neither lit it up and in fact made me long for the consistent yet unspectacular play for T. Edmunds.

Triston Thompson made some plays and was actually more impressive than Neal and Kazee in my opinion. He was hurt at times as well.

Patrick Peterson also played some safety and may have found a role there.  My issue is he is being paid like a CB2 and really didn't play that role. Consistent tackling was an issue. Would be more a FS than SS and the Steelers have Minkah. Would be too expensive as merely a back-up.

Elijah Riley is a scrappy back-up but is limited

Miles Killebrew is strictly a special teams ace.

 

How do I fix this secondary? I am going to make getting a CB1B and SS1 a priority.  In a perfect world this will come by via free agency.  Most don’t like hearing spending more $$$ on the most expensive defense in the NFL, but with a few tweaks it can really pay-off in the end and redistribute the $$$.

I am going to try to sign Jaylon Johnson if the Bears don’t tag him. If they do, I am all over L’Jarius Sneed.  

JPJ and Johnson or Sneed would give the Steelers their best set of CB’s in quite a long time. 

Next, I would consider signing an in the box type of safety that won’t break the bank.  My options would be bringing T. Edmunds back or signing Jeremy Chinn.  This allows Minkah to play traditional FS where he actually excels.

I would love to sign Kyle Dugger, but in signing a top CB and with having some of the other $$$ tied up on defense, it would be too expensive to get a top CB and SS in free agency. I prefer spending for a CB1B over SS1.

 

 

 

I would look to draft a slot CB. If that is not foreseeable, then look to sign Shaq Griffin.  He is a former starter and has some skills and flexibility.

 

 

CB1A - - Joey Porter Jr., Darius Rush

 

CB1B- - Jaylon Johnson or L’Jarius Sneed, Corey Trice

 

Slot - - Draft or Shaq Griffin

 

FS - - Minkah Fitzpatrick, Triston Thompson

 

SS - - T. Edmunds or Jeremy Chinn, Eric Rowe,  Miles Killebrew

 

 

 

 

 

 

I like most of the points here. I do like the thought of drafting a slot CB…and a slot receiver, as there will be good value there and I don’t want to sacrifice the trenches too much. On the LB front, I think they need a young all around stud. But, there is only one LB in this draft I would classify as that, and he’d have to be drafted in the second round. Montravius Adams should be upgraded upon. I’m all for keeping him as a backup if we draft a real NT and move Benton to 5 tech more. 

[warfelg]

On 2/8/2024 at 9:06 PM, armsteeld said:

Really simple. What would you do to the current roster position by position to make it better through releasing guys, signing guys in free agency, and drafting guys in the draft to upgrade your roster. This will be interesting to see. Shall we dance?

QBs

Kenny Pickett-will probably not want to be a backup if he can't be a starter. Backup QB or possible trade.

Mason Rudolph-resign. Challenge for starting position.

Mitch Trubisky -cut.

Adding Russell Wilson through free agency and drafting Joe Milton. Will have a 4 way true competition for starting QB position.

I was debating not doing this just because of how in depth it was but well....I got time to kill:

I think other than KP the entire QB room is new.  I think someone will offer Mason a multi-year contract at $7.5AAV to be the backup.  Trubs should be cut.  I can't see Wilson being brought in, but I can see another high end backup QB and using a 4th on a QB.

Quote

RBs

Alfonso Graham-PS.

Najee Harris-sign 5th year. He's my long term answer.

Zander Horvath-PS fullback.

Godwin Igwebuike-kick returner.Retain.

Aaron Shampkin-practice squad player. Will compete for a roster spot. Retain.

Jaylon Warren-long term change of pace RB. Spot starter.

Not really interested in drafting a RB but will sign one or two to compete for 3rd RB spot and/or possible practice squad spot.

I like Harris and Warren, Igwebuike will be back for returning reasons.  Horvath, Graham, Shampkin - thank you for your service.  I would look at signing a 2rd back either via UDFA or a "washed" vet like Bell.  We typically don't use this guy on ST anyways.

FBs

Jack Colleto-challenge for roster spot. Converted RB.

Connor Heyward-hybrid FB/TE. Smaller than usual but Smith always has 6'2 TEs in his system even though Heyward is 5'11. Utility FB.

Heyward is my H-Back.  Maybe UDFA one too that's more of a blocker and less of a utility guy.  Let the two wildly different styles compete with each other for the roster spot.

WRs

Calvin Austin III-challenge for Slot. Punt returner.

Miles Boykin-solid ST player. Retain.

Marquez Calloway- 6'2 210 big bodied WR who can do it all. Was a solid starter for the Saints. Will challenge for starting Slot. Retain.

Dez Fitzpatrick- 6'2 215 big bodied WR who doesn't have much NFL experience. Will compete for roster spot. Retain.

Keilahn Harris- will compete for roster spot. Retain.

Diontae Johnson- starter. Possible trade candidate for the right price. Willing to trade for a day 2 draft pick.

Denzel Mims- 6'2 207 runs 4.38 and is a field stretcher. Remember Coey Davis with the Titans. Mims is the same type of player. Can excel in this system.

George Pickens- superstar potential but good starting WR. 

Allen Robinson III-cut.

Deuce Watts-compete for roster spot. Retain.

Not signing ant free agents to come in. Not really interested in drafting a WR either. Will sign a couple guys to compete for practice squad.

Harris, Calloway, Fitzpatrick, Watts, Mims will likely be back, but they should be looking at short term rentals rather than looking at laying roots.  Agree on the Robinson cut.  DJ, same thing, I would shop him and see what shakes out but not go out of my way, as his last year of the contract needs attention one way or the other.  I know we differ on CAIII but I wouldn't put all the eggs in his basket.  Boykin gets some unnecessary hate because of his occasional use in the standard offense, and on ST the only time you are noticed is when you mess up.  I disagree on the not trying to sign and or draft one, we need to do one or the other because of none of those guys pan out and DJ walks, we have GP and nothing.

TEs

Pat Freiermuth-has superstar potential but solid receiving TE. Needs to improve blocking. Took pride in his blocking in the 2nd half of the season so that's a positive.

Connor Heyward-hybrid FB/TE. Smaller than usual but Smith always has 6'2 TEs in his system even though Heyward is 5'11. Utility FB.

Darnell Washington-blocking FB who loves to bully defenders. #2 TE with limited use in passing game. Must show he's a threat as a receiver.

Rodney Williams-solid blocker. When given a chance, he showed well. Needs to show more. Roster spot isn't safe. Retain.

Will sign a TE in free agency after the draft. Looking for a udfa to come in and compete for a roster spot.

I've been thinking about this on Muth - is it just me or does he play much smaller than his listed size?  He's 6'5" but when he's out there on routes and moving around he looks 6'1".  I think Washington is in for bigger things, even before DW we hadn't been a high TE2 usage team, so I think with Smith in town that's going to change.  Feel the same about Williams and I think Heyward will get the position change.  I would keep an eye on MyCole Pruitt, as he was in Tennessee with Smith, in Atlanta with Smith.

OTs

Spencer Anderson-rookie OT who could play every position on the OL. Promising future.

Tyler Beach-competes for practice squad.

Dylan Cook-Steelers love him. Has great upside.

Kellen Diesch-competes for roster spot.

Devery Hamilton-competes for roster spot.

Anderson Hardy-competes for roster spot.

Broderick Jones-superstar potential.

Dan Moore-inconsistent starter who needs to be challenged for his spot. 

Chukwuma Okarafor-incumbent starter. Will trade for day 2 pick.

Will add competition through free agency and/or the draft.

I like Anderson's future like you.  Cook - eh, I guess as a swing guy who I hope barely sees the field.  Diesch, Hardy, Hamilton your on PS notice.  3 dogs for 1 bone IMO.  Moore and Okorafor - thank you for your service.  Jones is going to be a stud LT, so we need to get his bookend this year.

OCs

Mason Cole-incumbent starter. Will compete for starting position. Possible trade or cut depending on who wins starting position. Weakest link in the OL.

Ryan McCollum-practice squad player. Will compete for roster spot.

Will sign or draft a challenger for starting position. 

Cole would be great moving into a backup position.  McCollum should be a PS guy.  This spot needs attention.  Heck you could even convince me to sign AND draft someone and deal with what to do with Cole after the fact.

OGs

Spencer Anderson-rookie OL who could play every position on the OL. Promising future.

James Daniels-quality starter.

Joey Fisher-compete for roster spot.

Nate Herbig-backup OL. Will compete for roster spot.

Will add competition through free agency and/or the draft.

Anderson, agreed.  Daniels should be extended.  Semualu was a stud, especially as the season went on.  Herbig is a good backup and the more I look at his bad play this year it was all at LG sandwiched between Moore and Cole who both are in need of bus tickets.

Ps

Pressley Harvin III-incumbent starter. Will compete for roster spot.

Brad Wing-will compete for starting position.

Will add competition through draft and/or free agency.

Thank you for your service parties for both.

K

Chris Boswell-quality starter.

 

Let's debate these positions before moving on to the defense.

All in all some similar thought processes, but definitely some spots I really disagree.

2 hours ago, Steeler Hitman said:

Defense: How to get the most out of the most expensive defense in the NFL.

Defensive Line - - needs some help. Cam is older, but they need to look at replacement for the future.

 

Montravius Adams - - Under-appreciated NG. I think that he plays better than given credit. I would actually like a bigger more stout NG or DT to team with Benton inside. He does not do much as a pass rusher. But someone who I feel is a better as a back-up than starter.

 

Keeanu Benton - - Looks like a star in the making as a rookie. Starter and will get better as he matures, gets stronger, and learns.

 

Cam Heyward - - A great veteran, but needs to be on a snap count and needs some better quality help around him. Upper side of 34, so we need his replacement to be drafted.

 

DeMarvin Leal - - Looking like a bad pick. He was a player who didn't have a position. He looks like a 4-3 DE type, but has found himself in the Steelers fans and Coach Tomlin doghouse.

 

Isaiahh Loudermilk- - Young player who actually improved and has some ability to be decent, but not spectacular.

 

Larry Ogunjobi - - I loved the signing initially, but his play regressed. Maybe in part of Cam being hurt and for his salary I wonder if the juice is worth the squeeze. I would probably cut and sign two decent players for his salary as insurance; Quentin Jefferson and Jonathan Bullard.

 

Armon Watts - - Not a bad back-up but shades of a very poor man's Chris Wormsley.

 

I would look to draft an IDL like Myles Murphy, Khristian Boyd, or Justin Rogers. I also like Logan Lee from Iowa and these are players who are going to most likely be day three picks.

 

Cam, Benton are the locks IMO.  Adams and Ogunjobi aren't locks to be back on the roster but will likely be back because of the lack of depth.  Leal is someone I think will be gone because he's just not a fit.  Watts - eh, I think he's easily upgradable and shouldn't be a lock to make the roster but likely will because it could be so many things to change out.

 

OLB - - We are pretty set here.

 

Marcus Golden - - Solid back-up and was everything that I hoped Bud Dupree would have been in that role.

 

Nasty Nick Herbig - - Looking like the next generation in Steelers OLB's.

 

Alex Highsmith - - Sacks were down as teams schemed differently, but still gives the Steelers one of the best one - two punches at OLB

 

TJ Watt - - Keep him healthy and let him reek havoc on offenses. Should be a unanimous Defensive MVP.

I really like this group as long as Golden is back.

 

ILB - - Could use some speed and the ability to cover TE's and RB's. Health was an issue with long term injuries and patchwork fill-ins.

 

Kwon Alexander - - He was a thumper and could cover. Probably the most under-rated injury on defense last year. Health a concern, but I sign him and let him compete. He is a competitor.

 

Cole Holcomb - - Got injured just as he was coming into his own. Hopefully healthy and can regain starting caliber play.

 

Elandon Roberts - - Solid and dirty type of Steeler LB. He needs to be on a snap count. Injuries mounting, but was the glue in 2023.

 

Myles Jack, Blake Martinez, Mark Robinson, Jaylon Smith, Mykal Walker are all cuts.

I think healthy this group, even without Alexander, is getting really underrated.  Roberts was a great thumper and the issue was not having the athletic rangy guy next to Holcomb.  I would like to see him get healthy, because I think that he was on his way.  I think that just signing a backup style ILB who can spot start early for Holcomb but isn't a long term solution should be the move.

 

I'm kinda out of steam here but Secondary thoughts deserve it's own post.

[armsteeld]

Reminder that the Steelers have the 2nd fastest CB in combine history on the roster. He needs more refinement but if he pans out....

https://x.com/SleeperNFL/status/1761827499804172394?t=VNaS-3uDSUOh-gIdPu0BUw&s=09

 

[rlon]

16 minutes ago, armsteeld said:

Reminder that the Steelers have the 2nd fastest CB in combine history on the roster. He needs more refinement but if he pans out....

https://x.com/SleeperNFL/status/1761827499804172394?t=VNaS-3uDSUOh-gIdPu0BUw&s=09

 

He and Rush are rough around the edges. They had problems sticking to receivers in their respective camps. That said, Willie Parker was able to become more of a running back than a guy with just speed, eventually. Ike Taylor is a better example for the position translation and as long as he didn’t have to catch the ball. It would be nice if one of these corners, along with Trice, surprise some people in 2024. I like how they got Rush some opportune confidence so to speak and at year’s end. Would have been nice if he caught that catchable INT.

Barnes is at his best when trailing in coverage and because he can make it up with his speed, but he is far from glue in terms of his adjustments, change of direction and fluidity. Obviously, he can handle verticals, though most don’t run straight fly patterns all of the time in the NFL. I watched a lot of tape on him after last year’s combine. I am hopeful…you can’t teach speed. 

Edited February 25 by rlon