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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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Dan McCullers is set to see an expanded role with the Steelers
GLENDALE, ARIZONA – DECEMBER 08: (L-R) Mike Hilton #28, Bud Dupree #48, Dan McCullers #93 and Benny Snell Jr. #24 of the Pittsburgh Steelers run onto the field for the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on December 08, 2019, in Glendale, Arizona. The Steelers defeated the Cardinals 23-17. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

The best of the rest

  1. Al Woods, Seattle Seahawks
  2. Justin Ellis, Baltimore Ravens
  3. Dan McCullers, Pittsburgh Steelers
  4. Bravvion Roy, Baylor
  5. Benito Jones, Ole Miss

These guys are the last resort; guys brought in who would compete with McCullers (or in this case is McCullers) and are far from guaranteed a roster spot. Al Woods would be a returning Steeler after playing with the team from 2012-2013. While his age is a concern, his likely minimal contract, and former player tag would make him a realistic option to return.

Justin Ellis has been a steady presence as a run stuffer, and like other free agents had Steeler interests back when he was drafted. Bravvion Roy and Benito Jones are both promising prospects but are long shots to contribute year one. They could serve as depth guys behind a free agent or McCullers (I shudder to think).

Speaking of, that brings us to the infamous mountain of a man. McCullers has found a niche role: a mediocre backup who can be improved upon but doesn’t need to be. Fans need to be realistic; McCullers will have an expanded role with the team next year unless one of the top options or tier two free agents are brought in. Considering the position and usage, if the worst-case scenario happens and McCullers is the penciled-in starter, the team will have plenty of ways to scheme the defense to minimize the weakness at the position.

Next. Steelers Mock Draft: Pittsburgh takes unusual route with new compensatory pick. dark

I would expect a minimum free agent signing like Woods or Ellis as well as a draft pick from the second or third list. That way, three realistic guys enter training camp and the top two end up earning their roster spots.

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