Grading Steelers intriguing free agent signings early in the process

James Daniels, OG, 3 years, $26.5 million

James Daniels has been the biggest get for the Steelers when you look at their current signings. He is currently just 24-years-old and immediately becomes their best player in the offensive trenches. He is physical and will benefit from moving away from Chicago.

This could be a future pro bowl player going forward and the deal that Pittsburgh gave him was team-friendly. If he does not work out for some reason, the club can cut bait after one season. That does not seem likely because this player is going to help move this line in the right direction.

Grade: A

The black and gold were finally able to upgrade a position in free agency. Not only does this signing look great but it also helps make the Mason Cole signing understandable. Cole can now battle it out for a starting spot at center or the opposite side at guard with Kevin Dotson.

One thing that this move does is provide options to the coaching staff. Daniels was originally drafted as a center before he caught on at guard. There will be competition for the starting interior offensive line now and Daniels will be one of those starters on day one and well into the future.