As we await word on whether the Steelers retain Larry Ogunjobi, many assume he will become a cap casualty. He would save the club seven million in cap savings to tack onto their lucrative number of 60 million. It's a clear choice regarding Ogunjobi's future as Pittsburgh realizes they must get younger and better in the trenches. Expect different moves to affect that area of the roster this offseason.
Don't be shocked if the Steelers take a defensive tackle or two in the upcoming draft. It's a deep class at the position and should produce some starting-caliber players. The organization should invest some of its money into a top-tier defensive tackle in free agency. There's plenty to choose from as they try and conclude this transition period.
Milton Williams, Philadelphia Eagles
No other free agent at the position makes more sense for the Steelers than Milton Williams.
Andy Weidl was with the Philadelphia Eagles from 2016 until 2022. His time with the Eagles produced a Super Bowl victory, which Philadelphia is celebrating again. Weidl was in charge of their draft board during his time with the Eagles, which he now does for Pittsburgh. He selected Williams in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft before departing Philly.
That familiarity will make Williams an obvious choice to sign with the Steelers. They would be foolish not to consider one of the top defensive tackles in this class of free agents. He is about to turn 26, and his projected contract isn't insane. Experts believe he will receive a three-year deal worth $12 million per season. He would be a perfect fit with the Steelers.
Tershawn Wharton, Kansas City Chiefs
If Pittsburgh wants to add a young defensive tackle but misses out on Williams, Tershawn Wharton could be their backup. His size is concerning when the Steelers want an archetype for their defensive line. Wharton is not 300 pounds, but he could still fill the defensive end spot that the defense needs. His size compares to DeMarvin Leal more than Cam Heyward.
Trying to crack the code on whether Wharton would be a perfect fit is why he is behind Williams. He will be 27 in June, meaning he's also a year older than Williams. Wharton had a terrific season, producing seven sacks and becoming a solid run defender. His physicality would be what the Steelers prefer. The pending free agent projects to be cheaper than Williams.
READ MORE: Ranking the underwhelming free agent quarterback options for Steelers in 2025
D.J. Jones, Denver Broncos
The elder statesman of this group of free agents is D.J. Jones from the Denver Broncos. The pending free agent just turned 30 in January. He remains in the prime of his career, but he wouldn't be a long-term upgrade like the Steelers would prefer. Jones makes the list because Mark Kaboly listed him in his projected starting lineup for Pittsburgh soon after this past campaign expired.
Jones has never been much of a pass rusher in the NFL. Other than that, he is a fantastic run stuffer. Fans hate the way the Steelers try and play old-school football. Jones would help them slow down the opponents' running backs, but that's it. His projected cap hit next season sits at a little over 11 million bucks on a one-year deal.
Teair Tart, Los Angeles Chargers
If they are searching for a younger and cheaper version of Jones, then Teair Tart might be their answer. He is still in the best years of his professional career, so the Steelers shouldn't be worried about his age. Tart is ranked last on this list because he's a less established version of Jones.
Similar to Jones, Tart would be best in a nose tackle role. He can help stuff the run and provide depth along the defensive line. He isn't going to add much to your arsenal regarding pass-rush capabilities. Signing Tart to a cheap one-year, 5 million dollar deal could open the door for Keeanu Benton splitting out to the defensive end. Tart wouldn't be earth-shattering, but he might help Benton grow.