The Steelers have a long list of pending free agents, and while some with be targets to bring back, it seems like there will be quite a few notable names that will walk. With free agency just around the corner, I wanted to go player by player and see what their value could be on the open market as well as what it would cost for Pittsburgh to keep them.
We continue this list with Elandon Roberts, who has sneakily gone on to be one of Pittsburgh’s better signings in recent years. No, he isn’t a perfect play nor does he play every down, but when called upon, he has been a force for the defense.
He brings a physical element that this defense is lacking, and losing him would be a hard pill to swallow. That said, at his age and with his limitations, you can’t spend that much on him. In a perfect world though, you find a way to keep him around and the linebacker room mostly intact.
Steelers market value for Elandon Roberts
- Over the Cap Value: $2.2 million
- Spotrac Value: N/A
Similar contracts: Mack Wilson ($4.25 million); Jahlani Tavai ($5.33 million); Tyrel Dodson ($4.26 million)
I don’t see a realistic way for Roberts to earn less than $2.2 million next season.
While a unique player as a hybrid starter/run-down specialist, there is still a market for that. Specifically, it seems like teams are willing to take chances on these types of players in hopes that their roles can grow.
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Given Roberts age, that is less likely to be the case in free agency. He will still have value, and I would expect his average per year to grow. Jahlani Tavai is a very similar player as a run-stopping specialist, but he also saw the most snaps of any of the similar deals. You would hope that Roberts wouldn’t have to be counted on for that many snaps.
I really like the Mack Wilson and Tyrel Dodson contracts. While not necessarily similar players, they were both role players for their defense. I think his realistic market value is hovering around there, and for what he provides, that would be worth the money.
Steelers deal needed for Elandon Roberts: 2-year, 8 million dollar deal (4 APY), 3.5 million signing bonus, 5 million total guaranteed
I think this deal almost writes itself. Roberts has expressed interest in returning while Pittsburgh wants their run defense to get better. A reunion makes sense and shouldn’t cost that much.
I have his average value slightly below that of Wilson and Dodson. It makes the contract look cleaner, and it provides a small discount for Roberts for his age and for the opportunity to stay in Pittsburgh.
The Steelers get back their hammer on defense who you know will bring the physicality to the team. While ideally a third linebacker, he can also come in as an injury replacement and hold his own. While not a must-sign, this deal would be a welcome one to bring Roberts back with little to no risk.