6 free agents Steelers should break the bank for in 2022

Steelers must sign Oluokun

The Steelers witnessed some of the worst off-ball linebacker play in years in 2021 as both Joe Schobert and Devin Bush dropped the ball for this defense. While Bush will be back, he will likely have a new running mate. While it seems like the team may target a linebacker in the draft considering their interest in some of the names, a free agent is also a likely choice.

Foyesade Oluokun has had one of the harder paths to success in the league, but he has been a capable starter for the Falcons since being drafted in the sixth round out of Yale. Undersized and only a marginal athlete, Oluokun quickly made it onto the field and made an impact in coverage. Now four years into his career, Oluokun has become a consistent and talented starter.

While not an elite linebacker in the mold of Fred Warner, Oluokun does everything that you need out of a linebacker. His coverage skills are what got him on the field early, but he has made strides as a run defender. He racked up almost 200 total tackles last season which indicates he is instinctive and willing to make a hit.

In terms of a new deal, Oluokun will probably be looking to top Corey Littleton’s deal and land somewhere around or just below Myles Jack. That would mean in the realm of 12-14 million dollars a season. While that is expensive, getting a consistent threat at linebacker is long overdue. Adding Oluokun gives the team flexibility for the rest of the offseason as they wouldn’t be forced to add a linebacker in the draft if the value doesn’t present itself.