3 former Steelers who could return to Pittsburgh this offseason

The Pittsburgh Steelers have a busy offseason ahead of them, but it could be made easier by bringing back some familiar faces.

Building around quarterback Kenny Pickett and a ferocious defense should be the primary objectives of what’ll be a tough first offseason for Omar Khan. Doing so while up against the salary cap AND with optimal draft selections suggests they’ll be very active in both markets.

When taking a look at Pittsburgh’s needs, it starts up front on the offensive line. However, linebacker, wide receiver and defensive back are all positions of need. The Steelers are expected to address the o-line in the NFL Draft, and hopefully take a left tackle in the first few rounds. It’s not a robust draft class on the offensive line, so those talents at the top of the first round are more meaningful now than ever.

Pittsburgh’s long list of free agents starts up front with Larry Ogunjobi, and continues with Devin Bush and Cam Sutton. Considering how much money the Steelers have invested in their defense already, spending more will not be an easy task.

However, bringing back a familiar face up front should be their first course of action.

Steelers rumors: Bring back Javon Hargrave?

Fresh off another successful season with the Philadelphia Eagles, Javon Hargrave hits free agency and is expected to make upwards of $20 million per year. Spotrac puts Hargrave’s market value at around three years and $60 million.

Hargrave commented on his time in Pittsburgh during Super Bowl week, stating that he didn’t play as much. He also complimented the organization, saying that he learned a lot from his time there.

“In Pittsburgh, I didn’t really play as much like I’m playing in Philadelphia,” Hargrave said. “But when I got to Philly, they just cut me loose. They put me in good situations to win.”

Philadelphia is where Hargrave grew into the player he is today. If the Steelers want to upgrade on the defensive line, this is how they do it — but it’ll come at a premium price tag.