After the Pittsburgh Steelers used ten picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, many of their roster holes appear to be addressed. That said, not every issue affecting the depth chart was resolved through the draft. On paper, it marked one of the bumpier draft classes of Omar Khan’s tenure as general manager, but only time will reveal how these prospects ultimately pan out.
There are still plenty of free agents on the market for the team to consider.
According to OverTheCap, the Steelers currently have approximately $11.07 million in available cap space. While that figure may seem modest, it becomes even tighter when factoring in the need to sign their incoming draft class and potentially re-sign Aaron Rodgers. With careful cap management, the team has enough financial flexibility to make targeted additions in free agency if they choose.
Pittsburgh Steelers post-draft roster holes could be filled by targeting free agents
Jahlani Tavai, LB
One of the more puzzling decisions for the Steelers during the draft was their failure to address the inside linebacker position. If the team decides to add reinforcements now, the available options are limited. Pittsburgh clearly aimed to overhaul that group heading into the offseason, but those plans did not come to fruition.
As a result, the Steelers may be forced to explore remaining free agent options, such as Jahlani Tavai, to help stabilize the position.
There are several interesting linebackers still available in free agency who could help Pittsburgh. Tavai is coming off a lackluster campaign with the New England Patriots, but he helped them reach the Super Bowl. His prior production from 2023 to 2024 should peek team's interest. Tavai combined for 215 tackles during that two-year span before getting demoted quickly by the Patriots this past year.
Will Dissly, TE
Despite adding several tight ends to the roster after the draft, Pittsburgh should still consider bringing in an established veteran. Will Dissly may not be a flashy free agent addition, but he offers valuable experience and could fill an important role. While the Steelers selected Riley Nowakowski in the fifth round, he profiles more as a hybrid player, leaving room for another on the roster.
The veteran tight end might be the perfect target to round out their position group. He is a well-experienced player and has played different roles throughout his career. Dissly produced an eye-popping 481 yards just two years ago and is a reliable blocker. No, Pittsburgh shouldn't expect him to become a dominant tight end for them, but Dissly would be a perfect third player on their depth chart.
Devin White, LB
Targeting Elandon Roberts in free agency would also make some sense for the Steelers, but the primary focus here remains on Devin White. He was a prolific tackler with strong production under defensive coordinator Patrick Graham during his time in Las Vegas. Notably, Pittsburgh showed significant interest in both Devin Bush and Devin White leading up to the 2019 NFL Draft.
Any snaps White earns with the Steelers would have to be earned. While he is capable of starting games, coverage has remained a weakness in his game, even as his tackling ability continues to stand out. He recorded 174 combined tackles with the Raiders last season, showcasing his productivity against the run.
At just 28 years old, White has experience playing multiple roles across different depth charts, making him a potential late addition who could provide value heading into training camp.
Jamie Gillan, P
Do not rule out the possibility of a punter being added to the roster ahead of training camp. While Cameron Johnston brings experience to the position, he is far from a guarantee to make the team. Johnston has proven in the past that he can be a quality punter, but he has also previously lost his job in Pittsburgh.
One experienced option who is accustomed to cold weather conditions and could be worth monitoring is Jamie Gillan.
After spending his first three seasons with the Browns, Gillan went on to join the Giants, where he played through last season. He brings plenty of experience in cold-weather environments and has consistently produced solid results during that stretch. Steelers Nation would also appreciate his fitting nickname, the “Scottish Hammer.” He would provide legitimate competition for Johnston.
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