5 Steelers that may not fit the new direction of the team

Jun 9, 2022; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) participates in minicamp at UPMC Rooney Sports Complex.. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 9, 2022; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson (18) participates in minicamp at UPMC Rooney Sports Complex.. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
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Kyler Murray #1 of the Arizona Cardinals throws the ball past Tyson Alualu #94 of the Pittsburgh Steelers (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images)
Kyler Murray #1 of the Arizona Cardinals throws the ball past Tyson Alualu #94 of the Pittsburgh Steelers (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images) /

Tyson Alualu could lose his chance of returning with a youth movement

Tyson Alualu has been one of the better players for the Steelers in recent history when it comes to  the team’s free agency signings. Many did not see the deal as being more than a depth move at the time, but this player has become a reliable starter for the defense. He has found a rejuvenation in his career at the nose tackle spot for this group.

Right now, this aging veteran is well past the wrong side of 30 years old and is entering his final season under contract with the black and gold. He could always be re-signed after the year concludes but that should not be taken for granted. Things will need to happen for this player before an offer is made.

The last time he was a free agent, many reported that he was going to sign with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He could not make it down to Florida and had some time to contemplate his decision. He decided to sign with the Steelers instead.

Alualu will be turning 36 during next offseason and that could be a tough contract to iron out. He will need to show that he can still play affective starting snaps for this defense after his season ending injury during 2021. The younger players behind him like DeMarvin Leal, Isaiahh Loudermilk, and Chris Wormley could all show that this veteran could be going in another direction from the club.