As Christmas arrives, most of Steelers Nation will be excited to see what sort of presents are awaiting them under the tree. In the NFL world, the Pittsburgh Steelers have a Christmas-like feel when free agency rolls around in March. There is still business to attend to this season as the team leads the AFC North standings.
Hopes are starting to gain traction in Pittsburgh once more, but it's never too early to consider who could be targets as free agents in 2026.
According to overthecap.com, the Steelers are projected to have $38.71 million in cap space to work with. A lot of that will be eaten up by their scheduled 25 pending free agents, who either need to be re-signed or let go. There will be some tough decisions this offseason regarding potential contract extensions and those who could become cap casualties. It could lead to more fireworks.
Pittsburgh Steelers' early 2026 free agent targets that would feel like Christmas presents
Tariq Woolen, CB
One name to monitor when free agency begins is Tariq Woolen.
He is a young pending free agent with speed to burn. The cornerback is an intriguing player who hasn't been as productive as he was in his earlier seasons during his young career. He remained in constant trade chatter leading up to the trade deadline this year, and many had Woolen connected to the Steelers. The potential free agent would be a nice get for General Manager Omar Khan.
Jauan Jennings, WR
Before the season, Jauan Jennings was connected to Pittsburgh in trade rumors. Khan allegedly called the San Francisco 49ers in an attempt to land the star playmaker. Jennings is a physical receiver whom the fans would love. The lack of a solid second option on offense opposite of DK Metcalf has been maddening this year, and it could force Khan to pay big money in free agency.
READ MORE: Steelers’ latest 2026 mock draft raises eyebrows after skipping top priority
Jaquan Brisker, S
While the safety position isn't a major need at the moment, it could become one if the Steelers choose to move on from Jalen Ramsey to create cap savings. If they do cut Ramsey, attacking the need with a free agent makes sense. Jaquan Brisker is a familiar player to the Steelers, having been closely evaluated during the draft process. The pending free agent is also from the Pittsburgh area.
Alijah Vera-Tucker, OG
With Isaac Seumalo scheduled to hit free agency, Pittsburgh could locate a younger free agent.
Alijah Vera-Tucker is an outstanding guard who missed the 2025 season due to a triceps tear. He should be ready to go in 2026, and Pittsburgh should be interested. Khan would do great work if he could sign Vera-Tucker to a solid deal to replace Seumalo with a younger guard who can play both sides at the position.