Steelers Poised To Reunite With Former Productive Defensive Starter

The Pittsburgh Steelers have several critical decisions to make as the new league year begins on March 11. With the legal tampering period starting on March 9, the 2026 season is rapidly approaching. Excitement is building in the Steel City, not only because of roster moves but also because Pittsburgh will host the NFL Draft for the first time ever. Fans are eager to see how the franchise will shape its future under the guidance of new head coach Mike McCarthy, who takes the helm for the fourth time since 1969. McCarthy is expected to make an immediate impact through a strong draft and an aggressive free agency period.

In recent moves, the Minnesota Vikings created $18.65 million in cap space by releasing star running back Aaron Jones and veteran defensive tackle Javon Hargrave. These decisions signal potential opportunities for other teams to strengthen their rosters, and the Steelers could be among them. With cap flexibility and McCarthy’s desire for proven talent, Pittsburgh is in a prime position to make bold moves in free agency.

Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo has suggested that a reunion with Javon Hargrave is a distinct possibility. Hargrave has already been informed by the Vikings that he will be released once the new league year begins. Bringing back the veteran defensive tackle could provide an immediate boost to Pittsburgh’s defensive front, offering both leadership and experience. As the new league year approaches, Steelers fans have plenty to be excited about, from free agency shakeups to the historic draft right in their backyard. According to Fittipaldo, Hargrave is a name the Steelers should and could consider.

"On a cheap short-term deal? Why not? He's familiar with the defense and still has many friends on the team like Cam Heyward and TJ Watt," Fittipaldo said when answering a question about bringing back Hargrave. "That would also allow Keeanu Benton to move to 3-technique, where he might be a better fit."

If the Steelers do bring back Hargrave, Fittipaldo highlighted why he believes defensive lineman Keeanu Benton would be the biggest beneficiary of that move. Hargrave’s veteran presence and experience could help Benton refine his technique, improve his game awareness, and take on a larger leadership role on the defensive line. 

The Steelers’ front office has done an impressive job of strengthening the trenches through Day 2 and Day 3 of the draft, adding depth and potential impact players. It appears they plan to continue that strategy in 2026, even if a reunion with Hargrave takes place, ensuring the team remains competitive and well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

"I would still draft an old-school nose tackle if there is a good one available on Day 2 or Day 3, but Hargrave playing on the cheap sounds good to me," Fittipaldo said.

At 33 years old, bringing back the veteran would be a cost-effective move, according to Fittipaldo. 

Steelers Can Improve Defense With Veteran

Hargrave started 15 games during the 2025 season with Minnesota but managed only 3.5 sacks, as he was still recovering from a torn right triceps injury that ended his time with the San Francisco 49ers just a season prior. 

Now possibly on a great-value deal, his veteran leadership and NFL experience could be the perfect solution to strengthen the Steelers’ defensive line, especially considering that Hargrave remains close with TJ Watt and Cam Heyward. Bringing him back would not only add talent and depth but also help mentor younger players while reinforcing the team’s identity on defense.

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