The Pittsburgh Steelers have $60 million to work with this offseason to add to their roster. They can attack free agency and the trade market for possible upgrades. Omar Khan and the front office in good shape regarding their current cap situation. With other potential contract moves in the future, they could effortlessly become one of the bigger spenders this offseason.
The Steelers are in good shape financially, but other clubs will make tough decisions. Other teams around the NFL will have to cut players who make too much money on their current contracts. They will become cap casualties and search for a new home this offseason. They could be perfect bargain choices for Pittsburgh to sign.
Possible cap casualties the Pittsburgh Steelers could sign in free agency
Jonathan Allen, DT, Washington Commanders (+$16.47 million)
With Larry Ogunjobi on the cusp of becoming a cap casualty of his own, Pittsburgh could target Jonathan Allen if he hits free agency. They have expressed interest in getting younger across the defensive line during the early portion of the offseason. They could add a starting-caliber player in free agency and draft some rookies.
Allen was the 17th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. He has produced some terrific campaigns throughout his NFL career, but the eight-year veteran isn't a star player. Pittsburgh wouldn't be getting younger with this addition. Allen would add a solid starting option for the Steelers while their young defensive lineman adjusts to the NFL level.
Tyler Lockett, WR, Seattle Seahawks (+17 million)
If Russell Wilson re-signs with the Steelers, this addition makes too much sense.
Tyler Lockett is an easy candidate to spot while searching for possible cap casualties across the NFL. He would save the Seahawks 17 million bucks. His role on their offense continues to sink as the veteran receiver prepares for his 11th season in the NFL. He played with Wilson for a long time in Seattle, but even if Wilson leaves, Lockett could still be an option.
Pittsburgh has a young receiving core. They need some leadership, and Lockett would provide that. He is on a Seahawks club ready to give their young receivers more playing time. That makes Lockett expendable and a potential option for the Steelers if Seattle releases him. The reliable playmaker might not be in his prime anymore, but he would be a nice signing.
READ MORE: Steelers put their money where their mouth is during this mock free agency
Derek Carr, QB, New Orleans Saints (+30 million post-June 1)
Many names are rumored for the Steelers quarterback conundrum. You hear names like Wilson, Justin Fields, Aaron Rodgers, and Matthew Stafford. All of those choices could realistically become the starter for Pittsburgh next season. While most of those names would keep the team in the murky middle, they could add a cheaper option if he gets let go.
Derek Carr is heading into the downswing of his career. Things look ugly in New Orleans as they have a cap issue. If they trade or cut Carr after June 1, they will save 30 million bucks. The Steelers could use him similar to Wilson last year. He would be a cheap free agent looking to prove his worth. He wouldn't excite many fans, but he could be another bridge quarterback to throw into the fire.
Kyle Juszczyk, FB, San Francisco 49ers (+$2.9 million)
With Brock Purdy's extension on the horizon, San Francisco is searching for ways to open cap space. Deebo Samuel is on the trade block, and he could find a new home with the Steelers if the money works. If the 49ers wish to open extra space, they could cut Kyle Juszczyk. He is a magnificent fullback and has been one of the best at his position for 12 years.
Arthur Smith remains the offensive coordinator for the Steelers, and he loves tight ends. He would love a fullback who can help their offense run the ball. Juszczyk can help open lanes for the rushing attack, but he can also split out as a receiving threat. Add in the fact he can also play special teams, and this might make Pittsburgh call him immediately if he gets let go by the 49ers.