Steelers news: Visit with OT Dawand Jones scheduled, free-agent fits named, and more
By Tommy Jaggi
Following the 2023 NFL Combine, quarterbacks have become a hot topic. New York Giants signal-caller, Daniel Jones, just received a massive contract extension, while the Baltimore Ravens placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on Lamar Jackson.
The Jackson situation is interesting, as it's possible the AFC North quarterback could be poached by another team at the cost of two first-round picks. We will continue to monitor that situation closely throughout the offseason. For now, here's the latest Steelers news.
Steelers news
We are entering the busiest rush of the offseason. Just after the NFL Combine and before the start of free agency, NFL teams are already scheduling personal visits with draft prospects. Ryan Fowler of The Draft Network confirms that the Pittsburgh Steelers are among seven teams scheduled to meet with Ohio State offensive tackle, Dawand Jones.
You might remember Jones from the Senior Bowl thanks to his freakish size metrics. At the NFL Combine this past week, Jones officially measured in at 6'8 1/4'' and 374 pounds with 36 3/8'' arms and a remarkable 87 7/8'' wingspan. This makes Jones one of the biggest and longest players in the history of the league -- regardless of position.
Using one of their 30 visits on an offensive tackle projected to go in the top two rounds shows that the Steelers are serious about addressing the position. Jones is a rare breed of football player whose size and length could be a huge asset at the next level.
More Steelers news
Free agency is now less than a week away, and the legal tampering period begins on Monday, March 13th. Prior to this date, Pittsburgh is expected to free up additional cap space by releasing players who won't be part of the picture in 2023 -- cornerback William Jackson is one of the biggest names projected to be let go.
With the savings the Steelers could look to add talent in free agency. Recently, a few big media outlets listed the best free agent fits for NFL teams. CBS Sports thinks Pittsburgh should fork up big for Chiefs OT Orlando Brown Jr. in free agency. Meanwhile, ESPN believes LB T.J. Edwards would make a great match with the Steelers.
Next. Steelers biggest draft crushes after the NFL Combine. dark
It's still unclear if Omar Khan will be willing to spend big in free agency this year or how much cap space will be available when free agency kicks off.