As the Pittsburgh Steelers continue to deal with limited cap space, the likelihood of a splash addition remains low. However, the team could still explore various options in free agency or the trade market to strengthen the roster before the regular season. While the core of the roster is largely set, the Steelers should not hesitate to evaluate opportunities that could provide meaningful upgrades.
Both starting-caliber players and depth pieces capable of contributing meaningful snaps in Pittsburgh should remain on the table.
There are still several intriguing free agents worth considering, and potential blockbuster trade scenarios could also emerge as viable options. If the Steelers are truly serious about contending for a playoff run this season, they must continue adding pieces to strengthen the roster.
Pittsburgh Steelers should trade or add free agents to positions of need before the season
Inside linebacker
Perhaps the most glaring weakness on the Steelers’ roster is at inside linebacker. Patrick Queen was involved in plenty of trade speculation this offseason, but those rumors ultimately faded.
Pittsburgh should still be looking to upgrade the position, but time is starting to run out, and there are limited options remaining in free agency that could provide an immediate impact.
Trying to locate an upgrade over Patrick Queen will not be easy, but it's not unattainable for the Steelers. They could find different ways of getting creative in trade talks by bundling Queen with another piece to the negotiation table to potentially land an elite inside linebacker. Failing to land an upgrade over Queen could wind up costing the Steelers as the season pushes onward.
Tight end
Yes, the Steelers recently brought in Robert Tonyan, but he should not be viewed as the primary free agent solution at the position. He brings valuable experience, along with familiarity with Mike McCarthy and Aaron Rodgers, but he may not be the answer to fully address their needs. Tonyan is a solid option to compete for a roster spot, but he should face stronger competition.
There are still some intriguing names available in free agency who could make sense, with Marcedes Lewis being one option. Another approach for Pittsburgh would be to move forward with Tonyan as the likely third tight end on the initial 53-man roster, then evaluate other possibilities during roster cuts across the league. Right now, the position is too top-heavy for the Steelers.
Offensive line
How the offensive line shuffle ultimately plays out remains to be seen, and that alone could create issues if the Steelers are not careful. Beyond that concern, however, the group is largely strong in the trenches. Both the projected starters and the available depth options should be improved compared to last season, but that does not mean the team should avoid exploring additional alternatives.
There is still a clear need at both tackle spots as the team prepares for training camp.
If a veteran becomes available via trade or a free agent option emerges, the Steelers should strongly consider exploring it. With Broderick Jones expected to miss extended time, the current options on the right side, Dylan Cook and Max Iheanachor, remain largely unproven. As a result, Pittsburgh would benefit from adding reliable insurance at the tackle positions.
Safety
The Steelers’ biggest splash in free agency was the addition of Jaquan Brisker, but they could still use help when it comes to depth at the position. Jalen Ramsey appears set to transition into a full-time slot role while retaining the ability to move around the defense. As it stands, Pittsburgh is essentially relying on Brisker and DeShon Elliott as its primary safety options on game days.
That lack of depth at the position could ultimately become a concern.
While the free agent market may not offer many standout options, the Steelers would ideally rely on those players primarily as depth pieces. Taylor Rapp and Jimmie Ward are two remaining names who could make sense for Pittsburgh. Both bring starting experience and the versatility to fill multiple roles. Adding another safety option before the season begins could be a smart move.
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