Time to blow it up: a foolproof plan to rebuild the Steelers in 2024

Steelers extensions and re-signings

While we opened quite a bit of cap space, there aren’t a lot of names this team should actively be trying to bring back. I would offer veteran minimum deals (or values close to that) to Markus Golden, Kwon Alexander, Miles Boykin, and Elijah Riley. They are all quality backups that can contribute if need be.

I would offer Miles Killebrew a similar contract that he is currently on. He is a dynamic special teams player and is worth the money. I would also try and ink Mason Rudolph to a solid backup deal. He has proven his worth, and frankly, I am open to him competing with Pickett assuming no better quarterback option presents itself.

There are some players who will be entering into the final years of their deals that I will try and extend. Chief among them is James Daniels, as he has become the best lineman on this team and is a huge boost in the interior. I want him locked down into his 30s.

Pat Freirmuth is a more than capable tight end, and while his 2023 season was hampered by injuries, I know the type of talent that he is. Good tight ends don’t grow on trees either, so I want him around as a safety valve. It won’t be cheap, but a new deal should be going his way.

Lastly, I would try and work out a deal with Jaylen Warren. The Steelers have control over him through the restricted free agent deal that he will be eligible for next season, so he could come at a discount. While I don’t anticipate Harris being around past his fourth year, Warren could be a fine replacement for a fraction of the cost.