Still Curtain
FanSided

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) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 4
Next
Andrew Billings may provide an easy solution for the Steelers
BALTIMORE, MD – OCTOBER 13: Andrew Billings #99 of the Cincinnati Bengals looks on during the first half against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on October 13, 2019, in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /

Second-level starters

  1. Andrew Billings, Cincinnati Bengals
  2. Leki Fotu, Utah
  3. Jordan Elliott, Missouri
  4. A’Shawn Robinson, Detroit Lions
  5. Davon Hamilton, Ohio State
  6. Rashard Lawrence, LSU
  7. Timmy Jernigan, Philadelphia Eagles

These guys all represent better value for the Steelers, yet all struggle in as complete players. That said, this is the most realistic list that could come in and start this year while keeping McCullers as a backup.

I almost had Andrew Billings on the first list, but his contract would likely be lower than an established player like Pierce. A’Shawn Robinson should be cheaper yet, but like Billings would be a decent two down option only. Both of these guys had a lot of pre-draft interest with the Steelers, a good factor when looking at who they sign.

Timmy Jernigan would be the cheapest of the three but would be the most lackluster option out of them due to nagging injuries. As for incoming rookies, all three guys are your classic run stuffer and can be had in the 3rd or 4th round.

Leki Fotu is the most promising of the quartet, and could develop into a more full-time player, but would likely cost a 3rd. Jordan Elliot shows a little juice as a pass rusher but needs to take more steps to be a top-tier player. Elliot is a projected tweener 3rd-4th round pick. Davon Hamilton and Rashard Lawrence are similar players, both likely career run stuffer who should be valuable in their role, but not ever top of their position guys. They should be comfortably waiting for phone calls in the 4th.

dark. Next. The "Best" of the Rest

Home/Steelers Free Agency