Some players still have plenty to play for down the stretch of the season. They need to prove their worth in terms of sticking around on their current contracts as others will try and show they are worth extensions with the Steelers. Free agency starts in March, so Pittsburgh will have to make those decisions quickly if they want to stay on top of their game and form a solid group next year.
According to Over the Cap's website, Mike Tomlin and Omar Khan will have a hair under 54 million in space to work with. They also have 25 pending free agents who need new deals. That 53.93 million in spending cash might seem good now, but that will be gobbled up by many of their pending free agents. There is a clear path for more cap space to be opened, so it's not all negative.
Russell Wilson, Quarterback
Let's get the obvious one out of the way first. Russell Wilson has continued to prove himself every week since taking over as the starter for Pittsburgh. He might not be the same player he was in his prime, but he is still head and shoulders better than most quarterbacks in the NFL. Wilson and the Steelers will reach a nice extension after the season that should be around two to three years.
Donte Jackson, Cornerback
One of the biggest surprises this year has been Donte Jackson. Many thought he would be an upgrade for the Steelers secondary, but not to the extent he has shown. He has produced more interceptions than ever in his career. Only having him for one season would stink, but he might have a huge market when free agency rolls around. Pittsburgh would love him back for the right price.
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Najee Harris, Running back
He might not be consistent from week to week, but when Najee Harris isn't outthinking himself, then he is a quality NFL running back. He has shown enough to the Steelers to a point where they should've at least picked up his fifth-year option. He has positioned himself into a good spot when free agency rolls around. Hopefully, he comes back at a cheap rate on a short-term deal.
Elandon Roberts, Linebacker
Most expected Elandon Roberts to be as good as gone heading into his final year under contract with the Steelers. He has started to turn that chatter into rumblings of both the player and the team wanting to strike an extension. Roberts has proven to be a ton-setter on defense with his explosive hits. Pittsburgh would love to have him back, but they need to make sure there is enough room.
Justin Fields, Quarterback
Here is the most shocking to make this list. Justin Fields has earned a contract extension in Pittsburgh. It all depends on the price and what his possible market could be in free agency. He deserves to test the waters and see what is out there. Maybe the Steelers could talk him into being Wilson's backup for another couple of years and give him a handshake agreement to be the starter after that.