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4 defensive tackles who could replace Javon Hargrave for the Steelers

By Tommy Jaggi

ORCHARD PARK, NY - DECEMBER 29: Jordan Phillips #97 of the Buffalo Bills puts on his helmet during the second quarter against the New York Jets at New Era Field on December 29, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. New York defeats Buffalo 13-6. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NY - DECEMBER 29: Jordan Phillips #97 of the Buffalo Bills puts on his helmet during the second quarter against the New York Jets at New Era Field on December 29, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. New York defeats Buffalo 13-6. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) /
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BALTIMORE, MD – DECEMBER 29: Michael Pierce #97 of the Baltimore Ravens reacts to a play during the second half of the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium on December 29, 2019 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MD – DECEMBER 29: Michael Pierce #97 of the Baltimore Ravens reacts to a play during the second half of the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium on December 29, 2019 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

Michael Pierce

Michael Pierce doesn’t have the impressive draft status of the other players mentioned on this list, but he could be perhaps the best fit of all. The former undrafted free agent in 2016 often gets overshadowed by Pro Bowler Brandon Williams on the Ravens defensive line, but that doesn’t mean he’s not a good football player.

Pierce has earned an average overall grade of 81.6, according to Pro Football Focus, and he is a consistent presence in run defense. Though he nowhere near as explosive as Hargrave, he a stout player (6’0” and 340 pounds) and he doesn’t often get bullied off the snap.

Pierce was not an every-down player for Baltimore, but then again, neither was Hargrave in Pittsburgh. Like Shelton, Pierce is also projected to make just $4.7 million per year on the open market – which is an extremely reasonable number after the Steelers make a few no-brainer cuts.

Next. Steelers Mock Draft: Pittsburgh adds a big-play wide receiver. dark

It’s hard to say whether or not the Steelers will be looking to replace Javon Hargrave in free agency, but it’s a solid defensive tackle class with a lot of players who fit their 3-4 base defense. Though none of them are likely to be as good as Hargrave, these guys could be excellent alternatives for the price.

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