It’s a new era in the Steel City. Mike Tomlin’s club has made plenty of noise this offseason. Are the Pittsburgh Steelers done when it comes to free agency?
They are only one of a few teams to reach the playoffs two consecutive years. However, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ last two seasons have ended with a resounding thud.
The 2020 AFC North champions were embarrassed at home by the Cleveland Browns in the wild card round. And then after taking a 7-0 lead over the Kansas City Chiefs in last year’s first-round playoffs, the team wound up being humbled, 42-21, by Andy Reid’s club.
But this promises to be a different year. Veteran quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has retired after 18 seasons. The quarterback situation had to be addressed.
The team signed Mitch Trubisky, who spent 2021 with the Buffalo Bills, to a two-year contract. And with the 20th overall pick in this year’s draft, the organization landed University of Pittsburgh standout Kenny Pickett.
The team had some salary cap room (via Spotrac) for the first time in years and put it to good use.
Are the Steelers done in free agency? Here are three veterans that could help the club’s cause.
3 free agents the Pittsburgh Steelers could still pursue
3. T Bryan Bulaga (Released by Los Angeles Chargers)
Running back Najee Harris had a productive rookie season in 2021. He totaled 307 carries for 1,200 yards and seven scores. He also finished second on the team with 74 receptions, good for only 467 yards and three touchdowns.
He did not fumble once during the regular season but did cough up the football in the team’s 42-21 playoff loss at Kansas City.
The offensive line was revamped a year ago and this offseason in free agency the team added versatile parts in interior linemen Mason Cole and James Daniels. The Steelers also recently added tackle Trent Scott, late of the Panthers.
But the club could use a little bit of an insurance policy outside.
Although veteran Bryan Bulaga missed all but one game in 2021 with the Chargers, he may be worth taking a risk on if he is healthy. Could the team kick the tires on the former Packers standout?