Steelers mock offseason: Building Pittsburgh's roster from the ground up in 2024

Steelers in-house free agents and free agency primer

Well, this is kind of weird. I was gearing up to try and bring back Mason Rudolph, but he was not available in this simulator. That said, if he were, I would be offering a two-year deal worth five million a season with some incentives if he starts. I don’t think I would offer more than that. Add a backup quarterback to the needs list.

The only guy I have any interest in giving a new deal is Allen. I know I cut him just a few seconds ago, but I think he is a fine fit as the third receiver and slot option when this offense needs one. He isn’t flashy, but if he is willing to play for the minimum, I’m happy to welcome him back. I offer him a one-year deal worth 1.2 million and he agrees.

Other than that, everyone else can walk. Levi Wallace didn’t move the needle last year, and while Montravius Adams had some strong tape at times, I want to revamp this room. The remainder of the options are players I cut, and I don’t feel inclined to try and bring them back.

Before free agency, I tier out my needs on this roster. My biggest holes are a center, a defensive end, a strong safety, a punter, and a slot defender. My second tier of needs are receiver, tackle, linebacker, and cornerback. Finally, I would like to add some depth players at running back, tight end, and quarterback.

All of those needs won’t be addressed in free agency, but I have my attack plan in place and a hearty budget. After the Robinson signing, I still have 53 million in cap space. Plenty of room to make a few major splashes.