A Big Deal: Pittsburgh Steelers: A Look Ahead to 2025 Offseason Signings 3 Key Players.
The Pittsburgh Steelers, a storied franchise in the NFL, are known for their defensive prowess, physical style of play, and consistency in building strong, competitive teams. Heading into the 2025 offseason, the Steelers have several key positions to address as they look to continue their success under head coach Mike Tomlin. With a mixture of young talent and veteran leadership, the Steelers will likely target a few key players to solidify their roster and stay competitive in the AFC North and beyond. This article takes a deep dive into three potential players the Steelers could sign in the 2025 offseason and how these additions could help shape the team’s future.
1. Offensive Line – Free Agent Tackle: Jawaan Taylor (Kansas City Chiefs)
The offensive line has been an area of concern for the Pittsburgh Steelers in recent years, and heading into 2025, improving this unit will be crucial for the team’s success. While the Steelers have some solid young talent on the line, such as center Mason Cole and guard James Daniels, they still need more consistency and protection for quarterback Kenny Pickett. A key target could be Jawaan Taylor, the 6-foot-5, 312-pound tackle from the Kansas City Chiefs.
Taylor, who was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, was traded to the Chiefs in 2024. Since entering the league, Taylor has steadily improved and earned a reputation as one of the more durable and reliable offensive tackles in the league. In 2023, he started all 17 games for the Chiefs and played a pivotal role in the team’s high-powered offense, including protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes during their Super Bowl run.
For the Steelers, adding a proven tackle like Taylor would significantly bolster their offensive line. Taylor’s ability to lock down the right tackle position would provide stability for Pickett, who will likely be entering his third season and aiming to take the next step as the franchise quarterback. His experience in both pass protection and run blocking, coupled with his ability to compete at a high level against elite pass rushers, would be invaluable for Pittsburgh’s offense.
Given the Steelers’ need for a right tackle and Taylor’s potential availability in free agency, he could be a top priority for the team in the offseason.
2. Defensive Line – Free Agent DT: Javon Hargrave (San Francisco 49ers)
The Steelers have long been known for their dominant defensive play, and while their defense remains strong, adding another impact player to their defensive line would make them even more formidable. One player who could be a perfect fit for the Steelers’ defense is Javon Hargrave, the former Steelers’ defensive tackle who currently plays for the San Francisco 49ers.
Hargrave, drafted by the Steelers in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft, was a key contributor to Pittsburgh’s defense for four seasons before signing with the 49ers in 2021. Since then, he has continued to develop into one of the best interior pass rushers in the league. Hargrave is known for his quickness and power, making him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks in the passing game, while also holding his own against the run.
For the Steelers, bringing back Hargrave would provide a boost to their defensive line, which includes talented players like Cam Heyward and T.J. Watt. Adding Hargrave would create a dynamic front that could dominate opposing offenses. His ability to rush the passer from the interior would complement the edge rush provided by Watt and Alex Highsmith, creating even more pressure on quarterbacks.
The Steelers may see Hargrave’s return as a way to recapture some of the defensive magic from their earlier years, as his familiarity with the team’s system would help ease his transition back into Pittsburgh. Moreover, the addition of Hargrave could be seen as a statement move, showing that the Steelers are still serious contenders for a Super Bowl as they strengthen their defensive unit.
3. Wide Receiver – Free Agent WR: Mike Evans (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
While the Steelers’ wide receiver room has been productive with players like George Pickens, Diontae Johnson, and Calvin Austin, the team could look to add an experienced playmaker to give them more firepower on offense. A potential addition to the Steelers’ receiving corps could be Mike Evans, the longtime wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Evans, who has been a model of consistency throughout his career, is one of the most accomplished wide receivers of his generation. He has topped 1,000 receiving yards in every season since his rookie year in 2014 and has been a favorite target for numerous quarterbacks, including Tom Brady. While Evans is known for his ability to make explosive plays downfield, he also has a knack for contested catches and can be a reliable red-zone target.
For the Steelers, adding a veteran presence like Evans would elevate their passing game. Pickens has the potential to be a star, and Johnson is a reliable route runner, but adding a big-bodied, high-caliber receiver like Evans would create mismatches against opposing defenses. Evans’ ability to stretch the field and make contested catches would also take some pressure off Pickett, providing him with a safety blanket in critical situations.
While Evans may not be in his prime years anymore, he still possesses the skills to be a game-changer for a playoff-contending team. With his experience, leadership, and ability to perform in high-pressure moments, he could help push the Steelers’ offense to the next level, especially if they aim to compete for a Super Bowl in the near future.
Conclusion
The Pittsburgh Steelers are constantly evaluating their roster to stay competitive in one of the toughest divisions in the NFL. As they approach the 2025 offseason, signing players like Jawaan Taylor, Javon Hargrave, and Mike Evans would address key areas of need and further strengthen their team for the future.
Taylor would help shore up the offensive line, Hargrave would add firepower to the defensive line, and Evans would give the receiving corps the added depth and experience needed to make a playoff run.
The Steelers’ front office has a history of making smart, calculated moves in free agency, and with the right acquisitions, the team could find itself in the mix for an AFC Championship in 2025. Time will tell, but these signings could be the foundation of a successful offseason and a strong future for Pittsburgh.
