5 AFC North free agents the Steelers should sign

Steelers could land a talented defensive lineman

Taven Bryan was hyped as the next J.J. Watt when he entered the league. His size and athletic traits mimicked what Watt had done at Wisconsin, but Bryan never put it all together as a pro. He isn’t bad by any means, but he hasn’t become the impact pass rusher or run stuffer that many envisioned he could have been.

The Browns signed him to a one-year deal last year, and he became a de facto starter, playing the most snaps in a season he has ever played and having statistically one of his best seasons. While he isn’t an elite name, he has proven to be able to hold his own on defense. The Steelers lack a capable end right now, and Bryan could be a short-term solution.

Beyond just the steady play, Bryan fits the mold of what the Steelers like to have in their base ends. That size is becoming harder to find in the league, so that is another plus for Bryan. He won’t break the bank, but Bryan could hold down a role on this line as the team tries to develop a new player behind him.