3 expiring contracts the Steelers must renew this offseason

Zach Banner, OT

Zach Banner earned his way to a fan favorite in 2019 when reporting eligible. With every announcement of him reporting, Heinz Field roared for big number 72. In 2020, he beat out Chuks Okorafor for the starting right tackle spot to begin the season. A torn ACL for Banner ended his time as a starter almost as quickly as it began devastatingly.

Banner is a young player who obviously showed the Steelers coaches enough to be named a starter on an offensive line that is tasked with protecting the most important man in Pittsburgh as far as the Steelers are concerned. His earning that spot should be enough to earn himself a new deal to come back in 2021 and beyond.

There are some honorable mentions as well that the Steelers need to take long looks at retaining this offseason. Tyson Alualu, Avery Williamson, and Matt Feiler all are guys the Steelers should think about bringing back.

Alualu has been exactly what the doctor ordered after losing Javon Hargrave last offseason. He played very well all 2020 and could come back on a cheap deal. Avery Williamson has been a blessing since they traded for him after Robert Spillane went down with a knee injury and could provide great depth behind Devin Bush and Vince Williams moving forward.

Matt Feiler stepped up big in 2018 and 2019 at right tackle before moving to left guard in 2020. He can provide versatile depth or battle for a starting job in 2021 and beyond.

The Steelers will have many big decisions to make when it comes to free agents this offseason. The three guys in this article are the three biggest and, if it can be done, they must find ways to keep them.