The NFL is in full offseason mode with the Super Bowl now past us. We are just about a month away from NFL free agency opening, and the Pittsburgh Steelers certainly have a lot of work ahead of them if they want to build a competitive roster for Mike McCarthy.
While it seems unlikely that the Steelers are major players in free agency (as is always the case), they should have enough cap space for one or two notable signings. It is pivotal that they make the most of their options.
One name that makes too much sense right now is former first round pick Alijah Vera-Tucker.
The former USC Trojan was the top pick for the Jets in 2021.
The collegiate tackle kicked inside to guard with great success. Now set to be a free agent, Vera-Tucker could make a lot of sense for a Steelers team hoping to build through the trenches.
The Pittsburgh Steelers can rejuvenate Alijah Vera-Tucker’s NFL career
Vera-Tucker has been a very good player since joining the NFL. However, he has struggled to stay on the field due to injuries. Through his first five seasons, he has seen his season end early three times.
In a guard market that has exploded in value in recent years, this is keeping a potentially elite offensive linemen in his prime affordable to the Steelers. According to Spotrac, his projected annual value is just a hair under $13 million a season.
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That is surprisingly affordable in a guard market that has seen players get closer to $20 million a season. It makes sense, though, given his injury history.
One could compare it to James Daniels contract last year. Coming off an injury, he signed a really affordable contract in Miami last year. Vera-Tucker may have to take a similar deal.
The Steelers are set to lose veteran Isaac Seumalo due to his age, and given the youth and cost of the line, it makes sense to add a free agent now before you have to start paying these guys currently on the roster.
Is there risk here? Of course. While great when healthy, three of five seasons being injured is a concern. That said, if you can get him on a discount, it can cement this line as a top unit.
He would be plug-and-play as a starter, allow Spencer Anderson to remain as the swing player, and provide a veteran for a really young unit. You can get a long-time contributor in Vera-Tucker at a reasonable price, and the Steelers need to pounce.