Inside linebacker might be one of the biggest needs for the Steelers this offseason. It desperately needs an overhaul after the club failed to adjust their issues at the position last year around this time. Myles Jack has been average at best and his high cap number seems to make little sense to keep around. Releasing him would save the club over eight million dollars in saving, which would provide some free agency flexibility.
There are not any elite talents that will hit the open market at the linebacker spot, but there are some interesting options that could provide an upgrade. A handful of players make sense that could become a cheaper and more reliable option than Jack would provide by coming back in 2023. Expect the black and gold to sniff around this market during free agency as they try to find better solutions.
1. Steelers could target Azeez Al-Shaair in free agency
Azeez Al-Shaair is still a young player as he will not turn 26 years old until this upcoming August. He has grown into a bigger role during his time with the San Francisco 49ers. The Steelers would be taking a little gamble here by signing Al-Shaair as he still has a lot to prove on his own after having great teammates surrounding him in California.
2. Steelers could target Drue Tranquill in free agency
It was a breakout year for Drue Tanquill as he got a crack at the starting role with the LA Chargers. He might not be the best overall linebacker in the NFL, but he could be a great player to tandem in the middle of the Steelers' defense. He broke onto the scene this year and has shown to be reliable in every facet of his game heading into the free agency process.