If we learned anything this season, it's that the Pittsburgh Steelers need help on the offensive line. The aging Ben Roethlisberger was under pressure continuously throughout the 2021 season which isn't a great mix when you factor in the lack of mobility for the 18-year veteran.
It was also tough for rookie running back Najaee Harris to get into any sort of a rhythm with the lack of push the offensive front was getting on the line.
With the Steelers finally having a considerable amount of money to spend this free agency and a top 20 pick in this year's upcoming NFL Draft, you can expect that a huge point of emphasis will be revamping the offensive line. With the 'Kendrick Green experiment' not going as planned, the Steelers could be looking at these three candidates as the teams next center:
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Ryan Jensen
With Tom Brady calling an end of his 21-year career and a significant amount of free agents hitting the market. It's safe to expect the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to look a little differently come 2022. With all that change coming, it wouldn't be out of the realm of possibility to see Tampa Bay part ways with their four-year center. The 30 year old vet may be looking for a 3-4 year contract for some stability and a place to finish out his career, so don't be surprised if the Steelers make a push for the first time Pro Bowler.
Ben Jones
The Tennessee Titans will do all they can to keep the 2021 offense intact again for next season, but they may end up running into cap issues. If this happens, they may be parting ways with their 10-year veteran center Ben Jones, who is set to be a free agent this off-season. Jones has missed just one game due to injury since joining the league, so the reliability and toughness he brings may just be what Pittsburgh needs. If the Titans and Jones part ways, you can imagine he would spark the Steelers' interest and would be a solid upgrade at center.
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Tyler Linderbaum
The Steelers may look to the draft to upgrade the center position. If this is the case, Tyler Linderbaum will likely be at the top of their radar. The three-year starter was the leader of the Iowa offensive line and was selected First Team All-American and Rimington Trophy Award winner in 2021. Linderbaum will be at the top of many teams' big board come draft time. Although a long shot, if he manages to slip to pick 20, the Steelers may end up taking a center in the first round.
Who do you think will be the next center for the Pittsburgh Steelers? Tell us in the comment section below!
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