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Replacing Javon Hargrave: Ranking the best defensive tackle options for Steelers

By Andrew Falce

BALTIMORE, MD - DECEMBER 29: Javon Hargrave #79 of the Pittsburgh Steelers lines up against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half at M&T Bank Stadium on December 29, 2019 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MD - DECEMBER 29: Javon Hargrave #79 of the Pittsburgh Steelers lines up against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half at M&T Bank Stadium on December 29, 2019 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /
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Gallimore could be as good as it gets for the Steelers
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – FEBRUARY 29: Defensive lineman Neville Gallimore of Oklahoma runs a drill during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 29, 2020, in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

The Cream of the Crop

  1. Neville Gallimore, Oklahoma
  2. Justin Madubuike, Texas A&M
  3. Michael Pierce, Baltimore Ravens

These three represent the best-case scenario for the Steelers. While none of these players would instantly alleviate the loss of Hargrave, it would provide the quickest transition phase.

The two draft candidates are almost identical sizes to Hargrave and have similar skills rushing the passer. In terms of the most similar players, Neville Gallimore, he ran a blazing 4.79 40 at the combine and fits the mold of the new look NT the Steelers have in Hargrave. Justin Madubuike is less twitchy of an athlete but no less effective rushing the passer.

The problem with them is the investment; both guys would have to be taken at pick 49 (if they fell that far). While they both look like solid prospects, investing your highest draft pick in a player that will only see the field that little may not make sense.

Michael Pierce is more of a throwback as an old-school run stuffer. He would be elite in that role as he was in Baltimore. While not as valuable as being able to get to the QB, he will likely see a contract around 4.5-5.5 million AAV on the market. The Steelers are cap-strapped, so he will likely be too expensive, but he would be the most consistent and dominant run stuffer on this list.

Next. Second Level Starters. dark

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