With 27 pending free agents set to hit the market in different capacities, don't expect the Pittsburgh Steelers to re-sign all of them. They have $44.94 million in cap space that they can spend re-signing some of their free agents or pursuing outside hires once free agency negotiations begin on March 9. Decisions must be made soon regarding teams and pending free agents, and it could get interesting.
In a recent article by ESPN's Matt Bowen, he ranked the top 50 pending unrestricted free agents in the NFL, and provided a good place they could call home. Their best landing spots were made, and the Steelers were connected to three names. One that stood out was a top pending free agent of theirs, long-time veteran Isaac Seumalo. It could be bad news regarding his future with the Steelers.
According to Bowen, the veteran offensive lineman could be on his way to California if his best fit becomes a realistic destination.
Seumalo could be heading to the San Francisco 49ers, according to Bowen's latest write-up. It makes sense as the 49ers could use some help up front. There doesn’t appear to be much negotiation between Pittsburgh and the guard, suggesting a split may be imminent.
Pittsburgh Steelers could witness OG Isaac Seumalo ship off to California in free agency
In his article, Bowen listed Seumalo as the 31st best available free agent. The 32-year-old guard will begin his 11th NFL season in 2026, likely away from Pittsburgh. He signed with the Steelers during free agency of 2023 after a strong career with the Philadelphia Eagles. He earned his only Pro Bowl selection in 2024 following a standout season that established him as a key piece in the trenches.
Without much talk of an extension leaking to the public, it seems unlikely that the three-year starter for Pittsburgh will return.
Unless talks are happening quietly, Seumalo looks likely to be on his way out of town. Landing with the 49ers makes sense as the veteran guard can help boost their offensive line. San Francisco wants to win, and Seumalo can help get them over the hump.
Bowen described the connection, "Improving the interior of the offensive line is a must for Kyle Shanahan's offense. Seumalo can displace defenders in both zone and gap run concepts, plus he would keep the pocket firm in pass pro for quarterback Brock Purdy."
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Despite having a comfortable amount of cap space to spend this offseason, don't be shocked if Seumalo leaves town. He isn't getting any younger, and despite him being one of the most consistent pieces along the offensive line, the Steelers could find help elsewhere. He is a strong player entering free agency, but the team could find a younger replacement in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Spotrac's website projects the veteran guard to receive a three-year contract worth $28.81 million as a free agent.
That’s a significant investment for a player who could decline with age, making moving on from Seumalo the obvious choice for the Steelers. According to Bowen, he could be searching for warmer pastures at his next stop in free agency.