NFL Free Agency 2018: One move each team should make

Pittsburgh Steelers: Sign RB Dion Lewis

Editor’s Note: The Steelers will place the franchise tag on Le’Veon Bell, which was reported after the penning of this. 

Alright, this one might be a bit controversial. I know that Le’Veon Bell will likely be back with the Pittsburgh Steelers next season. The Steelers will more than likely either place the franchise tag on Bell or lock him up to a long-term contract. However, I do not think that is the best plan of attack for Pittsburgh.

Bell is fantastic. His ability to make plays for the Steelers as a runner and receiver is unparalleled in the NFL. He is probably the best player at his position in the entire league and undoubtedly a major part of the Steelers defense.

The Steelers do not have a lot of cap space to work with this offseason. They are going to struggle to add the necessary pieces to their defense to improve on that side of the ball. Without Ryan Shazier, they have obvious needs at the linebacker position. Just add their to their issues in the secondary. Simply put, the Steelers need to spend money on their defense if they expect to compete with the New England Patriots in the AFC. In order for that to happen, they simply have to move on from Bell.

There is not a single player in the NFL who can replace Bell, but Dion Lewis would not be a terrible option. Lewis is an impressive athlete who shows tremendous stop and start quickness. He makes defenders miss with ease and is a true weapon both as a runner and receiver. If he could stay healthy, Lewis would be able to give the Steelers about 80 percent of what Bell gave them. Opting for Lewis instead of Bell would also allow the Steelers to add an impact player or two on the defensive side of the ball.

For the Steelers, it makes more sense to sign Lewis and use the saved money to improve their defense. I know there will be a lot of Pittsburgh fans who disagree, but that is how I feel about their current situation.