4 free agent edge defenders Steelers could sign to replace Melvin Ingram
By Tommy Jaggi
Steelers should pursue Vic Beasley
Vic Beasley was a former first-round out of Clemson with unbelievable athletic traits. Though he was a bit undersized for an edge defender (6’3”, 246 pounds), Beasly made up for his lack of strength and length with an explosive first step and speed to pursue the ball carrier.
In his second NFL season, many believed Beasley was on the fast track to stardom after earning 15.5 sacks and 6 forced fumbles on his way to First-Team All-Pro honors. Sadly, he would never again come close to having a season quite so dominant.
Beasley spent five games with both the Raiders and Titans last year but didn’t do much of anything. Just before that in 2019, however, the former first-round pick had an 8-sack season with the Falcons.
Still only 29 years old, Beasley could have something left to offer, and the crazy athletic traits didn’t just disappear. To be honest, he is probably best suited for a defense just like Pittsburgh’s and he could perhaps provide similar pressure as Melvin Ingram as a backup edge defender.