Free Agent Targets
Quarterback
1. Mitch Trubisky
-He feels like he's the forgotten QB among national analysts this offseason. Career 64.1 completion percentage, 64 TDs to just 38 INTs. He was over .500 in three of his four seasons in Chicago, a terrible team for QBs. Most importantly, he should be the most affordable option. IMO, he is the best option in terms of cost efficiency.
2. Marcus Mariotta
-Another cost efficient option with the ability to move around in the pocket. Not as much NFL success as Trubisky, but affordable.
3. Jameis Winston
-He has the highest upside in terms of production. However, he is coming off a major injury and given his upside, maybe be in demand.
Other options: Jameis Winston, Marcus Mariotta
Running Back
James White
-The Steelers need a backup for Najee Harris and I think this backup should have a different skill set. White is an ideal third-down backup with plus receiving ability.
Wide Receiver
Cedric Wilson
-There isn't much depth at the position and Wilson provides good size and experience in the slot. He also has the ability to step in as a No. 2 if needed.
Offensive Line
Ryan Jensen, C
-He's the top IOL in free agency and will cost a good bit, but he is a veteran presence who would solidify the interior.
2. Ben Jones, C
-If not Jensen, Ben Jones is a more affordable option. He's well over 30 and the wheels could fall off at any point, but again, this is a young offensive line in need of a veteran presence.
3. Brandon Shell, RT
-Not an elite tackle, just solid. That's all the Steelers need right now to upgrade the offensive line. A nice stopgap option if they draft a right tackle on day 2 or early day 3.
Defensive Line
Bilal Nichols, DE
-A lot will depend on what happens with Tuitt. If he retires, they'll need another player on the defensive line and Nichols has starting experience. He isn't anywhere near the player Tuitt was, but could provide an option until maybe a high draft pick is ready.
Linval Joseph, IDL
-I don't know if he'll want to go to a team like the Steelers at his age. I just like he's a proven run stuffer. However, with Alualu back and if Adams is re-signed, I don't see this one happening.
Linebacker
Anthony Walker, ILB
-Inside linebacker is an important position, I just don't want to see the Steelers invest a ton of money yet again after the draft picks spent to acquire Bush and Schobert. They have a lot invested in the position and I'd try to get a free-agent bargain here.
Defensive Back
Donte Jackson, CB
-He lost snaps in Carolina, yet has a pedigree and we know Tomlin likes players with pedigree. As we saw with Nelson and Witherspoon, the Steelers don't necessarily need a stud at CB and can put guys with talent in position to succeed.
K'waun Williams, CB
-Williams would strictly be to step in as a slot corner. He's been a good player for a long time and shouldn't cost much.
Jordan Whitehead, S
-If Edmunds doesn't return, I go with an "old school" safety in Whitehead. He's a physical player who could pair well with what Fitzpatrick brings.
