3 free agents Steelers must consider before training camp

OT Russell Okung

It’s somewhat surprising that a player like Russell Okung is still on the market. Though he was never considered among the best offensive tackles in the league, he was probably in the next tier down. Okung turns 34 this season (which is even pretty old for an offensive lineman). However, his play hasn’t faltered much over the past few years.

Though the arrow could potentially be pointed up for a player like Chukwuma Okorafor as he continues to develop, Okung is ready to step in right now and has a chance to be the best and most consistent offensive lineman on the Steelers immediately if the team would sign him.

The former two-time Pro Bowler isn’t a special player at this point in his career, but left tackle is arguably the second most important position in football outside of quarterback. Okung could help give Ben Roethlisberger some confidence in the pocket, and Okorafor could go back to being the swing tackle for the Steelers in 2021. I think Russell Okung would be a clear upgrade over Okorafor on the offensive line. The Steelers should see what he’s asking for.

When it all comes down to it, the Steelers are clearly trying to win now, and some of the voidable-year contracts they handed out are reflective of this. Pittsburgh will have to hold some money back in the event of an injury, but I really think they should make a push for one of these three free agents. They could make a noticeable difference in the team in 2021.