The Pittsburgh Steelers enter free agency with a significant amount of money to work with. They have $60,073,766 in cap space, giving them the flexibility to make key improvements. After a disappointing collapse in the 2024 season, Pittsburgh must carefully evaluate where to allocate its resources. It’s clear that upgrades are needed to strengthen the roster.
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Steelers General Manager Omar Khan (left) and Head Coach Mike Tomlin (right) sit in the franchise's draft room as they anxiously watch the board in 2023.
Many assume the Steelers will prioritize wide receiver, with some speculating that they could even target a running back. However, a new position of interest has emerged: the offensive line. During an appearance on the In The Huddle podcast, NFL Network analyst Brian Baldinger provided surprising insight into Pittsburgh’s plans. While the Steelers have not publicly indicated a strong desire to upgrade their offensive line, Baldinger’s comments suggest this has become a serious priority behind the scenes.
Speaking with Jason La Canfora and Carl Dukes, Baldinger emphasized that Pittsburgh is eyeing major reinforcements up front. Given their struggles in 2024, it makes sense for the Steelers to invest heavily in protecting their quarterbacks and improving their run game. With plenty of cap space and a critical need in the trenches, don’t be surprised if Pittsburgh spends big to solidify its offensive line this offseason.
"Their number one pick last year was hurt all year, [Troy] Fautanu, he's coming back," Baldinger said. "They're probably gonna hit, I mean, I've talked to people in Pittsburgh. There's a certain free agent offensive lineman that's gonna be available out there that they have their eyes on."
The Steelers have the financial flexibility to sign a top-tier offensive lineman to a massive $100 million contract if they choose. During the 2024 season, Pittsburgh’s offensive line seemed to hit a rookie wall down the stretch, struggling against more experienced veteran defenders. That’s understandable for a young unit, but it’s clear the Steelers need reinforcements. Mike Tomlin, Omar Khan, and Andy Weidl—who played a key role in building the modern-day Philadelphia Eagles—have undoubtedly taken stock of what’s happening around the league.
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Steelers Assistant General Manager Andy Weidl looks on while Howie Roseman talks to a player.
Weidl, Khan, and Tomlin are surely having discussions about the long-term potential of this offensive line. In today’s NFL, where mobile quarterbacks and dynamic offenses dominate, having an elite offensive line provides a massive edge. While adding playmakers always draws more attention, investing in the trenches is often the smartest move a team can make. Strengthening the offensive line could be the key to unlocking the Steelers’ full potential.
The Steelers have already made significant investments up front, trading up to draft Broderick Jones in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, then going heavy on the offensive line again in 2024 by selecting Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier, and Mason McCormick. Isaac Seumalo’s leadership is pivotal for this young group, but adding a veteran presence could be a wise move, giving McCormick more time to develop.
If Pittsburgh targets another lineman in free agency, a guard would likely be the priority. It’s also worth noting that the Steelers aggressively pursued Orlando Brown in 2023, nearly securing him before he signed elsewhere. That recent history suggests they won’t hesitate to be active again. If Pittsburgh keeps stacking talent and builds a dominant offensive line, it could be a game-changer for the offense and a breakthrough moment for Arthur Smith in 2025.
Steelers Must Have Perfect Offseason To Win The Super Bowl In 2025
The Steelers face an uncertain future at quarterback. In 2024, they had Russell Wilson and Justin Fields on team-friendly deals, but both are now free agents, and their price tags are set to rise. Fields is the more intriguing option—he brings excitement, upside, and a lower cost compared to Wilson.
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Steelers quarterback Justin Fields warms up on the field as the team gets ready to play a 2024 preseason game at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA.
If Pittsburgh re-signs Fields, adds another weapon, and strengthens the running game behind an elite offensive line, they could surprise a lot of people in 2025. However, pulling that off will require a near-perfect offseason.
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