Bold predictions: 4 Steelers who leave and 4 who return in 2022

4 Steelers who won’t return in 2022

3. Steelers EDGE Melvin Ingram

Melvin Ingram’s signing came as a bit of a surprise. Pittsburgh somewhat unexpectedly added him at the last minute in the offseason to give them a bit more depth on the edge, especially with the loss of Bud Dupree.

However, the Steelers only signed him to a one-year contract. Though being a 10-year veteran, he had a modest career with the Chargers at best. Case in Point T.J. Watt has 56.5 sacks in his four and a half seasons as a member of the Steelers compared to Melvin Ingram, who has 50 over 9 ½ seasons. Plus, he would be 33 years old next season.

So far, Ingram only has one sack, five solo tackles, and ten combined. It’s difficult to see Ingram ramping up his game to become more of a dominant edge rusher, and keep in mind what he does accomplish is only because T.J. Watt’s presence allows Ingram to look much better than he’s performing.

At the end of the season, the Steelers will opt not to resign Ingram. The Steelers linebacking corps should finish healthier than in 2020, barring any season-ending injuries for the remainder of the year. They have given Watt a new deal for five more seasons; the only other linebacker who’s contract is up is Spillane’s. In this case, Ingram served his purpose, and the Steelers will either add a younger edge rusher through the draft or free agency.