With the NFL draft concluded, the Steelers, arguably boasting one of the best drafts this year, have addressed most of their needs. However, there are still a few areas requiring attention. Pittsburgh has filled many gaps, yet some positions could benefit from further refinement. Here are a few free agents the Steelers should consider circling back to in order to round out their roster before training camp.
Before the draft, the Steelers chose to restructure Alex Highsmith's contract, providing them with some breathing room in terms of cap space. Prior to the restructure, the team had around 11 million in spendable funds, but now they find themselves with approximately 18 million. However, this figure will be slightly diminished by signings from their new draft class.
Nevertheless, the team has significant financial flexibility to pursue another quality free agent or two. Now, with that being said, here are some free agents the team should prioritize signing to further enhance their roster.
The Steelers should reinitiate negotiations for Tyler Boyd
The Steelers are in urgent need of another wide receiver to complement George Pickens and new draftee Roman Wilson. While Calvin Austin, Van Jefferson, and Quez Watkins offer depth, they are more suited as WR4 types. Pittsburgh should prioritize signing Tyler Boyd.
Though Boyd is technically a bigger slot receiver, he stands out as the premier free-agent pass catcher in the market. Boyd and Wilson could interchangeably fill the roles of the Z and slot receivers in various packages, adapting to weekly matchups. Heading into the season without securing another quality-level starter would be unwise.
Potential return for Cameron Sutton?
Heading into the draft, the Steelers had a clear need at cornerback. They addressed this position in the 6th round by selecting Ryan Watts as a potential slot corner option. However, as a 6th round pick, his roster spot is not guaranteed.
There were reports on Saturday that the team met with former Steeler Cam Sutton, whether discussing his potential return or just checking in on his recent legal issues. Setting aside those concerns, a reunion with Sutton would be wise. He proved to be an exceptionally solid player for the Steelers during his previous tenure, and bringing him back would benefit both parties.
While a suspension for Sutton may be imminent, the Steelers still require depth at cornerback, making a reunion with a player familiar with the system an attractive option.
Adoree' Jackson as another cornerback option
Another potential option for slot cornerback could be Adoree' Jackson. Jackson primarily played as an outside corner for the Giants but does have some experience in the slot.
Currently, the pool of slot corners in free agency is quite limited, so exploring players with some slot experience could be beneficial. Unless the team makes a trade for one, Pittsburgh will need to utilize every available resource to secure a viable slot option.
Reunion with former 1st round pick?
The Steelers signed Deshon Elliott to serve as its starting strong safety, with Damontae Kazee providing the only depth in the safety room. Another option for depth purposes could involve bringing back former first-round pick Terrell Edmunds.
While Edmunds may not have lived up to his first-round expectations, he still proved to be an overall solid player for the team. Similar to my previous mention regarding Cam Sutton, bringing back a player familiar with the team and system could be a wise move.
Given the injury bug that hit the safety room last year, having a backup player like Edmunds provides valuable insurance.