5 free agents that would improve Steelers OL in 2022

James Daniels, Steelers position fit: G, C

James Daniels is an example of a player whose versatility may have been more of a curse than a blessing. Drafted as a center out of Iowa 39th overall in the 2018 draft by the Chicago Bears, he has started more games at both guard spots than he has his college position. That versatility made him a valuable piece of the Bears offensive line the past four seasons, but not getting consistent playing time at one spot was hurting his development.

He seemed to find a home as the team’s left guard during the 2019 and 2020 seasons, but a pectoral injury ended his 2020 season just five games in. Now healthy, the Bears decided his permanent spot for 2021 would be the right guard position. He responded by having his best overall season while starting all 17 games, and it has primed him for a substantial contract this free agency.

Not only is he coming off a career season, but he has an advantage over most of his fellow lineman this offseason: age. Daniels was the 2nd youngest player in his 2018 draft class behind Buffalo Bills linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, and he won’t turn 25 until the beginning of next season.

Daniels’ best football is very likely ahead of him, something you can’t say about the other players discussed so far. Combine that with him likely commanding the lowest salary of the bunch depending on how his market plays out, and you have the perfect scenario for hitting big in free agency. His versatility is still a plus as well despite him settling in at right guard, especially if injuries were to pop up.