5 free agents we can be glad the Steelers didn’t sign in 2022

Laken Tomlinson signed a 3 year, $40 million contract with the New York Jets

Laken Tomlinson was considered a first-round bust before he rekindled his career with the San Francisco 49ers. He still isn’t a top-tier guard in the NFL, but he is a serviceable starter that was available to sign anywhere once free agency began.

The Steelers had their name tied to this player and other guard options on the open market. Luckily for the team, this player went elsewhere and cashed in. The New York Jets gave out a giant contract that overpaid this player. This could be a cap casualty down the line for this franchise.

Pittsburgh would then turn around and sign a more respected free agent guard for a fair contract. The black and gold added James Daniels to a deal that upgraded this offensive front instantly. Missing out on Tomlinson was great for this team as the Jets will struggle to deal with this contract sooner rather than later.

Getting this guard at this price is an inexcusable amount to give out. Good for this player for cashing in, but he is not worth this price. He should’ve gotten a contract more comparable to Daniels, but the Jets felt the need to get this player and that cost them a pretty penny.