Steelers post free agency analysis: Following same blueprint
By Eric Hassel
The Steelers added depth to the ‘D’ line with a divisional trade
When it was announced that the Steelers had traded with the Baltimore Ravens for a player, I was shocked. I honestly can not remember the last time we traded with the ravens, but that is exactly what we have done.
Chris Wormley, the player whom we acquired from the Ravens for a 2021 fifth-round pick, played his college ball at Michigan. Since Michigan is my favorite college team with the exception of my alma mater, Temple University, I watched Wormley play his entire college career.
While the Steelers received a 2021 seventh-round pick in the Wormley trade, I just don’t know if sending a fifth-round pick to a division rival is a wise decision. Where does Wormley fit in on the defense?
With the loss of Javon Hargrave, the only true 3-4 NT currently on the roster is Dan McCullers. Although McCullers is listed as a DT, he is really a nose tackle (NT). He would presumably be the replacement for Hargrave; however, I think it’s interesting to note that Wormley is listed as the only NT currently on the roster.
McCullers, who is listed at 6’7″ and 352 LBS is two inches taller and 52 LBS heavier than Wormley. I just don’t see Wormley being able to command a double team as a 3-4 NT must do in order for the base defense to work effectively. I could be wrong, but I see Wormley playing DE more than any other position.
Let’s see what other moves the Steelers made in free agency.