San Francisco continues their roster dismantling to prepare for a Brock Purdy extension and just cut their latest victim. Pittsburgh has been combing over options in free agency who hit the market after becoming cap casualties. They could attack that discount shopping bin once more.
Arthur Smith had an up-and-down campaign during his first season as Steelers offensive coordinator in 2024. He now heads into the 2025 campaign without a long-lasting option at the quarterback position. Things don't seem fantastic regarding the potential of his offense next year. He wants to run the football, and they still need a tandem partner with Jaylen Warren.
If the Steelers want to keep their run-first identity alive, they could target the 49er's recent cap cut. Kyle Juszczyk has enjoyed a fabulous career as a fullback in the NFL. He has not been afraid to throw blocks, make magnificent snags downfield, and contribute on special teams when called upon.
Smith might have met his match with Juszczyk sitting in free agency.
The Pittsburgh Steelers could express interest in former San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk
Since Smith has become the offensive coordinator in Pittsburgh, he has routinely expressed his love of tight ends. He has a solid duo of Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington on the roster, but he could always want more. Neither Connor Heyward nor Donald Parham is guaranteed a spot on the depth chart. Neither are great options to block.
Signing a tight end or fullback to compete or push Heyward or Parham during the season would be ideal. Smith should be screaming for reinforcements to help their run-blocking department. He might've seen Juszczyk become a free agent and nearly hit the floor. It might not be the most exciting idea for the Steelers in free agency, but it could help them create room for their running backs.
READ MORE: Best remaining free agent targets for Steelers after initial wave of free agency
Question marks surround the quarterback position, so it might be time for the Steelers to fully invest in Smith's rushing philosophy.
They should still be slinging the football with weapons like George Pickens, D.K. Metcalf, and Freiermuth on the field. Although they have those in their arsenal, they won't be lighting teams up. Pittsburgh must delve deeper into Smith's ideology to have any chance at success. Expect Omar Khan to locate a tandem partner with Warren this offseason.
On the bright side, this free-agent target shouldn't cost too much to acquire in the final years of his football career.
Once they find a dance partner at running back, they could rely on Juszczyk to block for them. He could also produce an unlikely weapon coming out of the backfield. Fans might not be thrilled about the Steelers offense sticking in the dinosaur age of football, but they have little opportunity to convert to the modern age.