10 realistic free agents the Steelers could sign in 2024

Steelers could target Jordan Whitehead

The safety position is a weird one to plan for in 2024. While Minkah Fitzpatrick will man down his side as a free safety, this team is lacking a strong safety. They tried a dual approach with Damontae Kazee and Keanu Neal in the box with ok results, but injuries and suspensions kept both off the field for stretches, and things got desperate.

A name that could be a great solution is Jordan Whitehead. The former Jet and Buccaneer isn’t built in the traditional box mold that this team likes for their strong safeties, but he has a track record of strong play (especially against the run). Given the devalued safety market and his contract, last year was similar to what Kazee and Neal combined to make, so he won’t break the bank.

He is also a Pittsburgh native, which is usually a plus for this team when they add players. He is from Aliquippa and played college football at Pittsburgh before being drafted in the fourth round. I was in favor of the Steelers drafting him when he was eligible and even signing him last year, but nothing materialized.

That could, and should, change this offseason. The dual safety method wasn’t great, and it would make a lot of sense to ink a starter for the same amount that they were paying for their other options. Whitehead would be a great fit for that role and would provide a major upgrade to the running mate of Fitzpatrick.