3 reasons trading Melvin Ingram makes sense for Steelers

Melvin Ingram reportedly wants out of Pittsburgh before the NFL trade deadline. Here are three reasons why trading the veteran pass rusher makes sense for the Steelers. 

Recently, reports surfaced that teams are interested in trading for Melvin Ingram. The Pittsburgh Steelers signed Ingram in the summer and he has been impressive in a part-time role so far in 2021.

However, Ingram has made it clear that he isn’t happy with the playing time he is receiving in Pittsburgh. After playing a majority of the snape to open the season, that number has plummeted over the final three games, and Ingram played just 29 percent of defensive snaps against the Seahawks before entering the bye week.

Now teams are apparently inquiring about a trade for the veteran pass rusher that could give their roster a boost and put some draft capital in Pittsburgh’s pocket for next season. Here are three reasons why trading away Melvin Ingram makes sense for the Steelers:

Alex Highsmith is clearly favored

It has become increasingly evident that Keith Butler prefers Alex Highsmith over Melvin Ingram. While you could argue that both players have been equally as impressive this season, it’s been Highsmith who has stood in a much more positive light over the past three games.

After playing 54-67 -percent of defensive snaps for the Steelers over the first three games, that number has recently skyrocketed for Highsmith. Most recently, he played 100 percent of defensive snaps against the Seahawks in Week 6.

The Steelers have really high hopes for their second-year edge defender across from T.J. Watt and he has the makings to be a player who could be here for a long time. With Ingram going back to a reserve role, Pittsburgh would be fine filling this with a player like Taco Charlton or Derrek Tuszka — especially if that player is now only getting roughly 25 snaps per game.