5 impact defensive linemen the Steelers could target in free agency

With only days away from free agency starting, the Steelers have plenty of issues to deal with. It seems like they might target some holes in free agency and the rest in the upcoming NFL Draft. There are some strong classes at different positions between the two talent acquisition pools. The Steelers will have plenty of options to get better if they choose to do so.

The crop of defensive linemen is not great in the upcoming draft, but there are a few quality players at the top of the group. It seems like if the black and gold wish to upgrade in the trenches on defense then free agency might be their best course of action. Some of these options could be role players, but the others would fill a starting spot and make Larry Ogunjobi expendable.

D.J. Reader would be a great fit for the Steelers in Free Agency

Let's kick off this list with a bang. It would be a big splash if the Steelers could go out and sign D.J. Reader. He is a proven defensive lineman that can both rush the passer and defend against the run. This free agent option has mostly played nose tackle during his time with the Cincinnati Bengals, but he has proven that he can play at different spots across the defensive line.

Reader will be 30 years old by the time the next season begins. He is coming off a torn quad in week 15 of this past year. That could put him behind the eight-ball in terms of rehabbing and getting on the field. If his medical check goes well, then this would be a great move by Pittsburgh. He shouldn't be too expensive, but he will cost a good chunk of cash.

Right now, he is projected to sign a three-year deal in the neighborhood of 15 million per season. That might seem steep, but he would be an immediate upgrade over Ogunjobi and allow Keeanu Benton to play a big role too. It would also take some pressure off Cam Heyward and his return from injury. Reader would be a great signing by the Steelers in free agency if they go that route.