Expect plenty of changes to happen to the secondary of the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason.
Many have predicted that the organization won’t be as aggressive in free agency as it has been in previous years, but that doesn’t make sense. They have nearly $45 million in cap space entering the offseason, and that number could inflate with multiple cap moves. They could spend a lot of money if they wish.
A variety of starters and role players from this past season could be searching for new homes in the coming weeks. Those set to hit free agency include Kyle Dugger, James Pierre, Miles Killebrew, Chuck Clark, Jabrill Peppers, and Asante Samuel Jr. All had solid roles with the Steelers this past season, and some might be leaving town as free agents. It could spark an overhaul of that group.
One name who could become a notable cap casualty is Jalen Ramsey.
He transitioned to safety during the middle of the campaign. While he did an admirable job, he didn't play up to the value of his hefty contract. Ramsey could save Pittsburgh a significant amount of salary cap space if they release him or restructure his contract. No matter if the veteran is gone or not, expect plenty of changes to come to the secondary this offseason.
Pittsburgh Steelers could invest big money to land pending free agent Jaquan Brisker
One name that sticks out as a potential blockbuster signing in free agency for the Steelers is Jaquan Brisker. The local Pittsburgh product was drafted in the second round by the Chicago Bears during the 2022 NFL Draft. He had plenty of pre-draft interest from Pittsburgh. While he hasn't been consistent from season to season, Brisker remains a tough safety who would fit their mold.
If the franchise decides to part ways with Ramsey, it would make sense to target the safety position in free agency.
They would be going big-game hunting by targeting a free agent of Brisker's ilk. Pro Football Focus' website currently has the star safety projected to receive a three-year contract worth $25 million. That would be a hefty contract to shell out, but it's not out of the realm of possibility.
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Depending on how the Steelers would structure Brisker's deal, they could actually save money by moving on from Ramsey. They would gain $19.5 million in cap space by releasing the veteran, and Brisker's projection has him earning $8.33 million per season on his next contract. It could be a perfect situation if Pittsburgh could land the free agent.
It won't be easy since he will have options.
Without Mike Tomlin in the fold, it could hinder the Steelers' ability to recruit free agents. While Mike McCarthy is a solid coach, he doesn't have the same draw as Tomlin. Brisker will have plenty of options to choose from in free agency, and the highest bidder might land him. If Ramsey is sent packing by the Steelers, they'd better make a splash signing, and Brisker would be a perfect fit.