Justin Ellis
While the Steelers seem set to play Tyson Alualu at NT this season (which appears to be a good fit on paper), they still have a “big” issue behind him in Daniel McCullers. The Steelers could use an upgrade there, and considering it is likely a long shot for a rookie to earn a spot over him, grabbing an established veteran like Justin Ellis if he is released would make sense. Ellis has almost no pass rushing skills (he has .5 career sacks), but he is a vicious run defender who knows how to clog lanes.
Alualu isn’t a bad run defender either but considering the NT position constantly takes on double teams, he would be suited better to man that position in passing situations. Run stopping and goal-line would see Ellis on the field clogging lanes and stuffing runs. While Ellis wouldn’t be a stat monster, he would be better in that role than McCullers, and if Alualu were to go down, the transition between him and Ellis wouldn’t be as severe.
While finding a primary backup at NT may not seem like a pressing need, the Steelers need insurance in case Alualu gets injured or struggles. Ellis would be a cheap fit who could man the role as a run stopper as the Steelers search for their future starting NT in the draft next year. Ellis is good at what he does, and while that skill is less valued in today’s NFL, it is still important to be able to stop the run. If he becomes victim to the Ravens numbers at DL, he could be a prime cut down candidate for the Steelers.