Steelers' Offseason Strategy: Key Free Agent Decisions and Roster Moves

The Pittsburgh Steelers are heading into a pivotal offseason, with free agency looming and a host of decisions to make regarding their roster. General Manager Omar Khan, known for his shrewd cap management, will need to balance retaining talent with making strategic upgrades. Here’s a breakdown of the Steelers' key personnel decisions.

Quarterback Dilemma The Steelers' top priority is solidifying the quarterback position. Both Justin Fields and Russell Wilson showed glimpses of their potential during the 2024 season, but Fields appears to be the frontrunner for a long-term deal. Fields' athleticism and upside make him a more attractive option, especially if the team can secure him before he hits the open market. Wilson, despite his veteran leadership, is likely to be let go due to his age and inconsistent performance.

Running Back Shuffle With Najee Harris expected to test free agency, the Steelers should focus on retaining Jaylen Warren, who has proven to be a versatile and dynamic player. Warren’s ability to contribute both on the ground and in the passing game makes him a valuable asset. However, the team must consider his recent injury history and negotiate a contract that aligns with his production.

Wide Receiver Decisions The Steelers have several decisions to make in their receiving corps. Ben Skowronek, a gritty special teams contributor, is a low-cost option worth retaining. Meanwhile, Mike Williams, acquired via trade, showed flashes of his playmaking ability and could serve as a solid WR3 if integrated into the offense more effectively.

Defensive Core Defensively, Elandon Roberts is a must-keep player. His leadership and run-stopping ability are critical to maintaining the strength of the linebacker unit. Additionally, James Daniels and Donte Jackson are worth re-signing if the price is right, as both players bring valuable experience and depth to their respective positions.

Roster Trimming The Steelers could create significant cap space by parting ways with several veterans. Preston Smith, Larry Ogunjobi, and Cole Holcomb are potential cut candidates who could free up over $26 million in cap space. Additionally, the team may consider moving on from Cordarrelle Patterson to address the kick return game. At punter, the Steelers have a decision to make between Corliss Waitman and Cameron Johnston, with Johnston’s release potentially saving cap space.

Conclusion The Steelers’ offseason strategy will hinge on balancing financial prudence with the need to retain and acquire talent. By making smart decisions on free agents and cap management, Pittsburgh can position itself for success in the 2025 season.