Fans won't be thrilled with adding more payroll to the most expensive defense in the NFL. In reality, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin will keep that scale skewed to the defensive side of the ball. With free agency underway, expect more signings to happen. Most top-tier free agents have found new homes, but those who remain available could struggle to find a bag of cash.
Pittsburgh has massive holes on their depth chart, especially when it comes to their defensive counterparts. They must locate some additions in free agency to take pressure off the draft.
The Steelers are without a second-round pick in the upcoming draft because of the D.K. Metcalf trade. That will only magnify the free-agent additions they complete between now and the preseason.
The Pittsburgh Steelers could sign these free agents to upgrade their defense
Charles Omenihu, Defensive end
We don't know if Charles Omenihu would be a perfect fit with the Steelers, but he is worth the gamble. Pittsburgh has been attempting to force DeMarvin Leal into a role Omenihu would be terrific in. He is a lighter option for a defensive end in Pittsburgh's defense, but he can play a hybrid role. If he adds more weight this offseason, he could even be a steal as a rotational player up front.
Omenihu hit free agency after only playing six games this past season. Don't expect this sixth-year player to break the bank on his next contract. Omenihu has constantly been a disruptor with the Kansas City Chiefs, and he produced eight sacks in his last 17 games. This free-agent target shouldn't be their only addition to the defensive line, but he would help their depth chart.
Noah Igbinoghene, Cornerback
Few options could solve the Steelers' issues at the slot cornerback position. They could reunite with Mike Hilton or Arthur Maulet, but those two could ask for a lot as free agents. However, Pittsburgh must find a solution in free agency if they want to squash any concerns about this weak point on their defense.
Noah Igbinoghene is a free-agent cornerback who can finally fix the problem.
Darius Slay has signed with the Steelers but won't fix their issues in the slot. Igbinoghene was a draft bust before joining the Washington Commanders this past season, where he jumped into the nickel role. He fought back to relevance in the NFL and could help Pittsburgh's defense. Igbinoghene is a stout cover cornerback who struggles to defend against the run.
READ MORE: Best remaining free agent targets for Steelers after initial wave of free agency
Marcus Epps, Safety
You can link Marcus Epps to the Steelers without researching too hard. He played under current Pittsburgh defensive backs coach Gerald Alexander last season in Las Vegas. They should be familiar with each other, and that could get this free-agent addition in motion. Khan must add some safety depth onto his roster, or they could have problems if Minkah Fitzpatrick or DeShon Elliott get hurt.
Sadly, Epps got injured after three games this past campaign. He would be a solid safety trying to rebound from injury. The Steelers prefer three starting-caliber players at the position when they play their three safety looks.
Epps has the connection to Alexander and the fit that would make this signing a perfect addition during the free agency process.