The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for training camp, but several key issues are hindering their roster. They could use some upgrades to their depth chart going into the preseason process. They would be wise to add another player or two who are still sitting in free agency. It might not be a flashy addition at this point in the football calendar, but Pittsburgh better make a move or two.
Everyone knows the Steelers would love to add another receiver to add to Aaron Rodgers' arsenal. They have searched the trade market and hosted some free agent possibilities. The addition of Jonnu Smith tamps down the need for another weapon on offense, but they could still use a proven commodity battling with Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson at training camp for snaps.
Beyond adding a receiver to the roster, General Manager Omar Khan will need to find an adequate replacement for Minkah Fitzpatrick.
They traded him to the Miami Dolphins in a blockbuster move. Unless Jalen Ramsey is the plan to replace the former Steelers star, they must locate an upgrade to their depth chart. One free agent stands out among the pack, and that's Justin Simmons.
Pittsburgh Steelers better target free agent Justin Simmons to solidify safety depth
Simmons might be their best choice heading into training camp to help boost the safety position. He isn't the same player he once was, but he is a respected starter in the NFL. The free agent would battle with Thornhill for opportunities on defense, and odds are, he has a great chance to win. He is searching for a shot to compete this year, and the Steelers are "all-in".
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Simmons isn't out of his prime yet at 31 years old, but you can see he isn't as dominant. He wouldn't be a star for the Steelers, but they don't need him to be. He is coming off a 2024 season where he produced two interceptions, seven passes defended, and 62 tackles in 16 starts.
It's a far cry from his All-Pro seasons, but he is a solid starter who would boost the roster going into training camp.
Since dealing away Fitzpatrick, Pittsburgh has a glaring hole at the safety position. They have DeShon Elliott, but he isn't a centerfielder at the position like Fitzpatrick was. He is a fantastic player for what he brings, but the Steelers will rely on a mixture of Ramsey and Juan Thornhill to replace most of the snaps left behind.
That could be a troublesome plan this season.
The expectation is that Pittsburgh will keep four to five players at the position on the 53-man roster. Elliott and Thornhill hold two spots, with Miles Killebrew holding another. That leaves one or two roster vacancies. Simmons would likely win a starting job if he signed as a free agent. The position is shallow with talent after trading away Fitzpatrick. They could use a reliable veteran on the team.