Pittsburgh Steelers’ Key Free Agents
The Pittsburgh Steelers face a significant roster overhaul with several key players heading for free agency this March. While much of the national limelight will focus on high-profile quarterbacks like Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, the Steelers have a few other valuable players whose futures are uncertain. Among these, offensive lineman James Daniels stands out as a notable and underappreciated free agent. Despite playing only four games in the 2024 season due to a torn Achilles, Daniels earned a remarkable 92.9 Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade, placing him second among 135 qualified guards. Though Daniels is still considered a solid starter, the Steelers are expected to let him walk in free agency, as rookie Mason McCormick, the 2024 draft pick, excelled in his absence.
James Daniels: A Cost-Effective Veteran
James Daniels, despite his injury, remains a highly attractive free agent due to his proven track record and cost-effectiveness. Mason Cameron of Pro Football Focus recently identified Daniels as an ideal free agent target for the Miami Dolphins. Cameron noted that keeping quarterback Tua Tagovailoa upright and in the lineup is crucial for Miami’s success, which will necessitate investments in the offensive line. However, the Dolphins have limited salary cap space to make significant additions. A cost-effective veteran like Daniels, who is coming off an Achilles injury, could be a practical solution. Daniels was on a roll in 2024, posting a 92.9 PFF overall grade over 209 snaps before his injury, indicating his high potential for a return to form.
Dolphins’ Need for Improvement
The Dolphins’ offensive line struggled significantly in 2024, allowing 2.5 sacks per game. Both starting guards, Robert Jones and Isaiah Wynn, are heading for free agency, leaving a gaping hole in the unit. James Daniels, assuming he is fully recovered, would provide an immediate upgrade. With a career history of durability, having played in at least 15 games in five of his seven seasons, Daniels is known for his above-average run-blocking skills. This combination of experience, performance, and potential makes him an ideal candidate to bolster the Dolphins’ front line.
Financial Constraints and Potential Solutions
According to Over the Cap, the Dolphins are projected to have less than $1 million in available cap space this offseason. Spotrac projects Daniels to sign a two-year deal worth $7.8 million annually, which, while not exorbitant, exceeds the Dolphins’ current budget. However, the team has several options to create additional cap space. They can restructure, cut, or extend contracts, such as those of Tua Tagovailoa, Bradley Chubb, and Aaron Brewer. Additionally, the potential retirement of star offensive tackle Terron Armstead could free up significant cap room. While Armstead’s retirement would ease financial constraints, it would also exacerbate the team’s need for offensive line reinforcements.
The Broader Impact of Free Agency
The Steelers, on the other hand, will feel the impact of letting Daniels go, especially with the emergence of Mason McCormick. If Daniels leaves, the Steelers will need to ensure that McCormick can maintain the high level of performance he showed in 2024. The team’s offensive line depth and overall roster flexibility will be critical in the coming season. Meanwhile, the Dolphins must balance their financial limitations with the need to improve their offensive line to support Tua Tagovailoa. The strategic decisions made during free agency will be pivotal in shaping both teams’ prospects for the upcoming season.
Conclusion
The upcoming free agency period holds significant implications for both the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Miami Dolphins. James Daniels, despite his injury, remains a highly sought-after player due to his exceptional performance and cost-effectiveness. For the Dolphins, signing Daniels could be a strategic move to address their offensive line weaknesses, provided they can manage their limited cap space. Conversely, the Steelers must prepare for life without Daniels, relying on the development of their younger players. The decisions made this offseason will undoubtedly shape the trajectories of both teams in the coming season.
