Pittsburgh Steelers: 3 Bargains to target in 2019 NFL free agency
2. TE Darren Fells (Released by Cleveland Browns)
Although he’s had some problems staying healthy, one-time San Francisco 49ers tight end Vance McDonald has obviously become a favorite target of Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger in a short time.
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This past season, he finished fourth on the team with a career-best 50 receptions, good for 610 yards and four scores. His scintillating stiff arm of Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ safety Chris Conte on a Monday night in Week 3 was one of the more notable plays of the Steelers’ season.
The Pittsburgh offense will certainly miss tight end Jesse James, who signed with the Detroit Lions this offseason. While he made his share of receptions, he was also a solid overall performer in all aspects. So could the club add 32-year old pro Darren Fells, recently released by the Cleveland Browns?
His forte is blocking and could be a major asset to a Steelers’ ground attack that must re-establish itself this season. This past season, he played in all 16 games and made 11 starts. And while he caught only 11 passes, three resulted in scores.
Fells could be a nice compliment to McDonald when the team goes to some two tight-end sets. If the Steelers opt to go in this direction, don’t be surprised if the team still addresses the position in April’s draft.