4 scenarios of how the Steelers could replace Bud Dupree

Option 4: Cameron Wake

This option could be as realistic as signing Clay Matthews. The other free agent, the Steelers, could sign to help them out could be Cameron Wake. Cameron is an 11-year veteran having played most of his career in Miami. He is 6’3” and 263lbs and named to the pro-bowl five times and one-time all-pro. He could be the short term solution to the Steelers’ problems.

In his career, he played both linebacker and defensive end. So he is like Anthony Zettel, a big guy with versatility. Over 11 years, he has racked up 282 tackles with 362 combined tackles. He has 100.5 sacks, 22 forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and one interception.  Certainly, he is every bit as impressive as Matthews.

If they play him on end to rush, then it could allow Highsmith to drop into coverage; it could actually work for the Steelers. It would minimize Dupree’s loss, still, allow the Steelers to pressure the quarterback and a crafty vet that could teach Highsmith a thing or two. Ironically his age could actually get this deal done to get him into a Steelers uniform. Wake, unlike Matthews, is 38.  Nearing the end of his playing career, no team has opted to sign him in 2020. Which makes sense at 38; there are much younger players out they can sign. In this case, the Steelers wouldn’t need to sign him for more than one season.

The deal they give him would be like the deal Tampa Bay gave Antonio Brown.  Unlike Tampa Bay’s deal, Wake could help the Steelers way more than Brown helps Tampa Bay. Plus, Wake could get a Superbowl ring out of the deal, something he never got playing for Miami. He could at least retire as a champion unless the Steelers decide to utilize him in 2021, which at least for now would seem unlikely. Then again, they could probably keep him for 2021 for a basement bargain price. Furthermore, what other options would Wake have available? Not many.

As intriguing as signing any of these free agents would be, it seems unlikely the Steelers will pull the trigger. More than likely, they opt to go with Highsmith. Why not they drafted him, they might as well put their faith in their draft choice. At the end of the day, that is how the Steelers operate. When you draft a player, you should put your trust in that player. Otherwise, why draft them in the first place. Certainly, Alex Highsmith is talented enough that the fans should have faith in him.

Of course, if all else fails, the Steelers have one additional option. Jack Lambert once said at the end of their loss to the Raiders in the 1976 AFC Championship Game give us a six-pack of beer, and we will play it again. Well, perhaps for a six-pack of beer, they can coerce Lambert to come out of retirement, strap on the helmet, and play for eight games for a shot at another ring.  Who wouldn’t love to see that? If Only!