its rebuild /retool time

[Dwinsgames]

lot of high $$ contracts that are playing on reputation got to go ...

Ben is not a 40 million dollar QB

Pouncey is not a 15 million dollar center

AV is a 2021 FA and isnt worthy of a new deal IMO

Conner is a FA and needs to go

JuJu can go he hasnt done shit in 2 years but piss off opponents by dancing on their logo



Team needs QB, WR, RB, OLB , C , LT , ILB

[st33lersguy]

lot of high $$ contracts that are playing on reputation got to go ...

Ben is not a 40 million dollar QB

Pouncey is not a 15 million dollar center

AV is a 2021 FA and isnt worthy of a new deal IMO

Conner is a FA and needs to go

JuJu can go he hasnt done shit in 2 years but piss off opponents by dancing on their logo



Team needs QB, WR, RB, OLB , C , LT , ILB, HC, OC, DC, Special Teams Coordinator, OL coach

Fixed it for you

[Steeldude]

Nothing will ever improve if Tomlin remains.

[that1guy]

Nothing will ever improve if Tomlin remains.

This has been a talking point for many years, the Rooneys don't have the balls needed to send Tomlin packing. Steelers may

- - - Updated - - -

Juju sees his time here coming to an end

[EzraTank]

At this point Ben's numbers are counting against the CAP next year even if he retires. Barring a trade that is, which ain't happening.

So at this point draft a legit RB, just try to rebuild some type of OL that can run block and create a balanced attack.

Try to keep your defense together and hope Bush comes back. But until Fichtner is gone nothing will change.

[JayC]

I hope Ben retires.

[Rotorhead]

At this point Ben's numbers are counting against the CAP next year even if he retires. Barring a trade that is, which ain't happening.

So at this point draft a legit RB, just try to rebuild some type of OL that can run block and create a balanced attack.

Try to keep your defense together and hope Bush comes back. But until Fichtner is gone nothing will change.

This, draft OL and hope They fire Fitchner in about 2 minutes

[Edman]

I hope Ben retires.

He wants that money. He's not going anywhere.

He needs to be forced out like Troy and take the cap hit. He's an anchor around this team and he's gotta go.

[EzraTank]

We just need ten quick 2 point conversions to steal this!

[EzraTank]

I hope Ben retires.

Why, his CAP hit stays with us? I'd have no problem drafting a rookie QB but Ben's numbers are going to kill us next year.

[Dwinsgames]

Why, his CAP hit stays with us? I'd have no problem drafting a rookie QB but Ben's numbers are going to kill us next year.


his decisions making killed us today ...

sure tipped balls but you got to know players put their arms up you cant release it that low for defenders getting it , lot of high throws across the middle ... just poor play sure he padded his stats but who gives a shit about those stats in a game you are getting your ass handed to you all day sure your gonna get some stats

[86WARD]

JuJu is really the only receiver that consistently catches the ball.

[fansince'76]

JuJu is really the only receiver that consistently catches the ball.

Bu-bu-but, he dances!!!

[Edman]

JuJu is really the only receiver that consistently catches the ball.

But he's become a fucking cancer who talks shit and dances. If AB isn't immune, Juju needs to go too.

[86WARD]

Bu-bu-but, he dances!!!

I forgot. He’s got to go! He’s shit.

[Rotorhead]

Take away the first play and the tipped INT and we win, not all on Ben, but he has to shoulder the blame along with Tomlin for this one. The first quarter killed us as well as the ridiculous play calling. No huddle gets us back in the game and we stop and go back to the BS short passes when there was no wiggle room. That is on Tomlin.

[EzraTank]

his decisions making killed us today ...

sure tipped balls but you got to know players put their arms up you cant release it that low for defenders getting it , lot of high throws across the middle ... just poor play sure he padded his stats but who gives a shit about those stats in a game you are getting your ass handed to you all day sure your gonna get some stats

He's used to throwing balls high like that because for years he knew AB and Ward were going to go get them. DJ and Ebron are interception creating machines with the amount of balls they tip up into the air.

Like I said his CAP hit is on the books next year so you fire Fichtner, try to build an OL, draft a RB and hope you get one more good year out of him. If he retires you have to go into rebuild mode and let all the vets walk and build around TJ and Fitzpatrick, Claypool and Juju (if they resign him). If they can get a legit QB for next season via trade then the Rooney's HAVE to tell Ben retire or be released.

But CAP hell is going to kill this team the next few years and we might be in for a playoff desert like we saw after Bradshaw.

[Mach1]

Ben sitting on the bench after the game had the look of retirement.

[Edman]

Take away the first play and the tipped INT and we win, not all on Ben, but he has to shoulder the blame along with Tomlin for this one. The first quarter killed us as well as the ridiculous play calling. No huddle gets us back in the game and we stop and go back to the BS short passes when there was no wiggle room. That is on Tomlin.

That's when you know we're fishing for excuses.

[dislocatedday]

I am assuming this team will start a rebuild/re-tool (call it whatever you want). I think it is time to do this, particularly on offense. Looking at next year's salary cap charges, and the need to free up some money, here is where I would start with players not coming back to the Steelers:

Ben - Retire or Cut - He has a $41 million cap charge, with a $22 million dead cap hit if he is cut. The team gets $19 million back.

Haden - I like Haden, but he will be another year older and he has a cap charge of approximately $15.5 million - If he is released the team carries a cap hit of just under $3 million...so the team gets back about $12.5 million

Pouncey - $14.475 million cap charge next year if he is on roster. If he is cut he will count $6.475 against cap but team gets back $8 million.

Decastro - Similar to Pouncey - $14.297 million cap charge. If he is cut he will count $5.547 million against cap but team gets back about $8.5 million

Ebron - Carries a $8.5 million cap charge. If he is cut he will count $2.5 million against cap, but team gets back $6 million

McDonald - Carries a $7.925 million cap charge. If he is cut he will count $2.727 against the cap, but the team gets back $5.2 million.

So with getting rid of those guys who are not worth those contracts, the team will recoup $59.2 million by my math.

This makes getting guys on the Oline a priority and the team needs a TE too, as well as QB obviously, but I think the team should bite the bullet and do this going forward. I think they could turn around and sign some of these younger guys going into their prime who are FAs (JuJu, Dupree).

I'm not opposed to an all new coaching staff, but I do not think Tomlin will get axed. At a minimum though, I see no good reason to bring Fichtner back as OC.

[pczach]

his decisions making killed us today ...

sure tipped balls but you got to know players put their arms up you cant release it that low for defenders getting it , lot of high throws across the middle ... just poor play sure he padded his stats but who gives a shit about those stats in a game you are getting your ass handed to you all day sure your gonna get some stats



And now maybe everyone should understand how a bunch of other quarterbacks that lost a shitload more games than him have bigger stats. You know, the ones everyone wants to say are better than him. You put up big stats when you are behind in a lot of games and lose a lot more.

[BlackAndGold]

Ben sitting on the bench after the game had the look of retirement.

Pouncey was sitting right next to him.

[EzraTank]

I am assuming this team will start a rebuild/re-tool (call it whatever you want). I think it is time to do this, particularly on offense. Looking at next year's salary cap charges, and the need to free up some money, here is where I would start with players not coming back to the Steelers:

Ben - Retire or Cut - He has a $41 million cap charge, with a $22 million dead cap hit if he is cut. The team gets $19 million back.

Haden - I like Haden, but he will be another year older and he has a cap charge of approximately $15.5 million - If he is released the team carries a cap hit of just under $3 million...so the team gets back about $12.5 million

Pouncey - $14.475 million cap charge next year if he is on roster. If he is cut he will count $6.475 against cap but team gets back $8 million.

Decastro - Similar to Pouncey - $14.297 million cap charge. If he is cut he will count $5.547 million against cap but team gets back about $8.5 million

Ebron - Carries a $8.5 million cap charge. If he is cut he will count $2.5 million against cap, but team gets back $6 million

McDonald - Carries a $7.925 million cap charge. If he is cut he will count $2.727 against the cap, but the team gets back $5.2 million.

So with getting rid of those guys who are not worth those contracts, the team will recoup $59.2 million by my math.

This makes getting guys on the Oline a priority and the team needs a TE too, as well as QB obviously, but I think the team should bite the bullet and do this going forward. I think they could turn around and sign some of these younger guys going into their prime who are FAs (JuJu, Dupree).

I'm not opposed to an all new coaching staff, but I do not think Tomlin will get axed. At a minimum though, I see no good reason to bring Fichtner back as OC.

Good post and doable but unless they draft/trade for a QB that can start Rudolph is your starter next year. Bubby Brister 2021, ugh but I guess you have to lose a few years to probably rebuild.

[Rotorhead]

I am assuming this team will start a rebuild/re-tool (call it whatever you want). I think it is time to do this, particularly on offense. Looking at next year's salary cap charges, and the need to free up some money, here is where I would start with players not coming back to the Steelers:

Ben - Retire or Cut - He has a $41 million cap charge, with a $22 million dead cap hit if he is cut. The team gets $19 million back.

Haden - I like Haden, but he will be another year older and he has a cap charge of approximately $15.5 million - If he is released the team carries a cap hit of just under $3 million...so the team gets back about $12.5 million

Pouncey - $14.475 million cap charge next year if he is on roster. If he is cut he will count $6.475 against cap but team gets back $8 million.

Decastro - Similar to Pouncey - $14.297 million cap charge. If he is cut he will count $5.547 million against cap but team gets back about $8.5 million

Ebron - Carries a $8.5 million cap charge. If he is cut he will count $2.5 million against cap, but team gets back $6 million

McDonald - Carries a $7.925 million cap charge. If he is cut he will count $2.727 against the cap, but the team gets back $5.2 million.

So with getting rid of those guys who are not worth those contracts, the team will recoup $59.2 million by my math.

This makes getting guys on the Oline a priority and the team needs a TE too, as well as QB obviously, but I think the team should bite the bullet and do this going forward. I think they could turn around and sign some of these younger guys going into their prime who are FAs (JuJu, Dupree).

I'm not opposed to an all new coaching staff, but I do not think Tomlin will get axed. At a minimum though, I see no good reason to bring Fichtner back as OC.

I think you keep Decastro, and draft a lot of OL. Would like to keep Dupree, but will take Hilton of the two if I had to choose between them to sign.

[Edman]

Pouncey was sitting right next to him.

Good. They both need to hit the bricks.

[fansince'76]

And people wonder why Bradshaw flipped this fanbase the bird for a good two+ decades after he retired...

[dislocatedday]

And now maybe everyone should understand how a bunch of other quarterbacks that lost a shitload more games than him have bigger stats. You know, the ones everyone wants to say are better than him. You put up big stats when you are behind in a lot of games and lose a lot more.

That was Matt Stafford in Detroit for so many years. He was always great to get in fantasy football because he would always get those late garbage points because the Lions would fall way behind, and then he would get 2-3 garbage time TDs in the 4th quarter and a finish with 350 yards and 3-4 TDs for the game.

[Rotorhead]

Good post and doable but unless they draft/trade for a QB that can start Rudolph is your starter next year. Bubby Brister 2021, ugh but I guess you have to lose a few years to probably rebuild.

I don’t know about a few years, one year of MR means a top 10-15 pick lol, get our next starting QB (hopeful) and above average drafts and rebuild is over.

[DesertSteel]

Let the Mason Rudolph era begin!

[Edman]

And people wonder why Bradshaw flipped this fanbase the bird for a good two+ decades after he retired...

It's a "what have you done for me lately" league, unfortunately.

[dislocatedday]

I think you keep Decastro, and draft a lot of OL. Would like to keep Dupree, but will take Hilton of the two if I had to choose between them to sign.

Yes, Decastro is the one I am iffy on as I think he has been playing hurt this year and he is not super old yet, but if the team really needs to get some extra money he would be a candidate for release.

My thinking is that they can keep a couple young guys such as JuJu who is only 24 (assuming he would take a deal somewhere around 4 years for 40-45 million) and either Dupree or Hilton/Sutton, and still have some money to spend elsewhere. Connor may even come back on a relatively inexpensive deal. I do not think he will "break the bank" somewhere else.

Obviously TJ is going to get a massive deal, but he is already on the books for approximately $10.5 million next year and they could sign him to a massive extension that does not really increase that amount next year.

[pczach]

And people wonder why Bradshaw flipped this fanbase the bird for a good two+ decades after he retired...



It's pretty sad the way fans send players off after all the victories. I mean, Bradshaw and Ben played in 7 Super Bowls between them and won 6, but you have to listen to assholes saying "fuck him" over and over again in the gameday thread, or saying they've sucked for 10 years....These people are clowns. They don't deserve to root for winners. They deserve to be fans of teams that don't go to the playoffs for nearly two decades.

It's really, really sad.

[DesertSteel]

And people wonder why Bradshaw flipped this fanbase the bird for a good two+ decades after he retired...
Ultimately who cares?

[fansince'76]

Ultimately who cares?

Plenty of people seemed to when he was doing it...

[Shoes]

Ultimately who cares?

Exactly, the fans get pissed, the players walk away with millions and flip off the fans after every game....in private. :chuckle:

[dislocatedday]

It's pretty sad the way fans send players off after all the victories. I mean, Bradshaw and Ben played in 7 Super Bowls between them and won 6, but you have to listen to assholes saying "fuck him" over and over again in the gameday thread, or saying they've sucked for 10 years....These people are clowns. They don't deserve to root for winners. They deserve to be fans of teams that don't go to the playoffs for nearly two decades.

It's really, really sad.

I don't think I've personally ever reacted that way and referred to Ben in such a derogatory manner on these boards, but I do think it is time for him to retire. This team has other issues obviously, but I really don't think the Steelers can count on Ben going forward. I appreciate all he has done for this franchise, as we have been lucky as fans to not have to worry about the QB position for 17 years now.

What are you thoughts on Ben playing after this year?

[Edman]

It's pretty sad the way fans send players off after all the victories. I mean, Bradshaw and Ben played in 7 Super Bowls between them and won 6, but you have to listen to assholes saying "fuck him" over and over again in the gameday thread, or saying they've sucked for 10 years....These people are clowns. They don't deserve to root for winners. They deserve to be fans of teams that don't go to the playoffs for nearly two decades.

It's really, really sad.

Then you realize they are professionals who have been granted the privilege to live dreams few even have access to and go home to big bank accounts and tv contracts and you don't really feel all that sad anymore.

[DesertSteel]

Plenty of people seemed to when he was doing it...
Troy was pissed too but his time was up. Ben's time is up. You can't make business decisions from emotion.

[Mojouw]

If the team cuts or encourages to retire Ben, Pouncey, Haden, and McDonald -- that is +$17 million in cap space. Meaning (based on https://overthecap.com/calculator/pittsburgh-steelers/) they go from -$21 million to +$17 million with just those 4 changes.

Take Haden out of it and it is +$10 million in cap.

I have no idea if those moves are good or bad ideas. Just jumping off Desert Steel's idea that there are some serious business decisions to be made between now and the start of the league year in March.

[Mojouw]

Also, I am the last guy to every advocate for firing people. But, at this point, three questions need answered:

1. Is the prioritization of pass blocking over run blocking a decision by Fichtner or to cater the offense to Ben R?
2. Is the lack of RPO and play action a decision by Fichtner or to cater the offense to Ben R?
3. Is the short passing game a decision by Fichtner or to insulate a diminished Ben R from throws he can not reliably make anymore?

Depending on how those questions are answered, the path forward on offense gets some clarity.

Honestly, no matter what, I think Fichtner needs to go. I think he was a good coach for Ben in his prime. Ben is no longer in his prime, so he needs a coach who can cover that up if Ben plays in 2021+. If Ben doesn't play, turn the thing over to Canada (that is why they brought him - regardless of what they said in public) and see what you can do.

[Fire Goodell]

Rudolph looked better than Ben lately

[Shoes]

Also, I am the last guy to every advocate for firing people. But, at this point, three questions need answered:

1. Is the prioritization of pass blocking over run blocking a decision by Fichtner or to cater the offense to Ben R?
2. Is the lack of RPO and play action a decision by Fichtner or to cater the offense to Ben R?
3. Is the short passing game a decision by Fichtner or to insulate a diminished Ben R from throws he can not reliably make anymore?

Depending on how those questions are answered, the path forward on offense gets some clarity.

Honestly, no matter what, I think Fichtner needs to go. I think he was a good coach for Ben in his prime. Ben is no longer in his prime, so he needs a coach who can cover that up if Ben plays in 2021+. If Ben doesn't play, turn the thing over to Canada (that is why they brought him - regardless of what they said in public) and see what you can do.

I don't think Ben listens so much to Fichtner. I don't know how many times I've seen Fichtner blabbing away and Ben is gazing out at the horizon with a blank look on his face. I agree that Fichtner needs to go, but I think Ben will return. If that is the case I hope its to prep a new QB. As others have said here he isn't going to win another SB. The hour glass is about empty.

[Mojouw]

Rudolph looked better than Ben lately

And they basically don't run the same offense when Rudolph plays. The Steelers have 2 offenses - the Roethlisberger offense and the Not-Roethlisberger offense. Determining the reasons and who decides what between those two would provide a great deal of insight into why we saw some of the things we saw in 2020.

- - - Updated - - -


I don't think Ben listens so much Fichtner. I don't know how many times I've seen Fichtner blabbing away and Ben is gazing out at the horizon with a blank look on his face. I agree that Fichtner needs to go, but I think Ben will return. If that is the case I hope its to prep a new QB. As others have said here he isn't going to win another SB. The hour glass is about empty.

I mean he could, Jimmy G almost won one. But I agree with your line of thinking.

I won't be upset with much of anything as long as the Steelers don't try and just run out the closest version to 2020 they can in 2021. If Ben comes back, the system needs a revamp. If it is not Ben, a new system needs installed that caters to whoever that is.

[Shoes]

And they basically don't run the same offense when Rudolph plays. The Steelers have 2 offenses - the Roethlisberger offense and the Not-Roethlisberger offense. Determining the reasons and who decides what between those two would provide a great deal of insight into why we saw some of the things we saw in 2020.

- - - Updated - - -



I mean he could, Jimmy G almost won one. But I agree with your line of thinking.

I won't be upset with much of anything as long as the Steelers don't try and just run out the closest version to 2020 they can in 2021. If Ben comes back, the system needs a revamp. If it is not Ben, a new system needs installed that caters to whoever that is.

Jimmy G could at least move. :chuckle: You can play if you're old, not so mobile, but accurate. If you're old, not so accurate and not mobile, that is strike three.

[Fire Goodell]

I think we gotta go back to basics. Draft a RB and some maulers in the OL. Bring that toughness back to Pittsburgh that's been lacking for a long time.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Troy was pissed too but his time was up. Ben's time is up. You can't make business decisions from emotion.

:applaudit: Truth.

Steelers arent winning a SB with Ben at QB any more and his $20million + contract (or dead cap) just keeps the team from keeping young talent on the roster. Time for Ben to retire or the Steelers to release him and start re tooling around the young core of talent they have.

Some of you are gonna learn what it was like to be excited that a guy like Mark Malone, Bubby Brister or Tommy Maddox got the Steelers to the playoffs.

[Steeldude]

It's all ok. The Steelers are learning some new dance steps. That's all that matters.

[pczach]

I don't think I've personally ever reacted that way and referred to Ben in such a derogatory manner on these boards, but I do think it is time for him to retire. This team has other issues obviously, but I really don't think the Steelers can count on Ben going forward. I appreciate all he has done for this franchise, as we have been lucky as fans to not have to worry about the QB position for 17 years now.

What are you thoughts on Ben playing after this year?


I'm fine with moving on from Ben. I just defend him when people are screaming at him because they don't realize others are responsible for some mistakes that he gets blamed for.

The OL needs to be retooled.

The offensive scheme needs to be scrapped or highly modified.

Fichtner needs to go.

Some established players need to be let go.

[86WARD]

It's pretty sad the way fans send players off after all the victories. I mean, Bradshaw and Ben played in 7 Super Bowls between them and won 6, but you have to listen to assholes saying "fuck him" over and over again in the gameday thread, or saying they've sucked for 10 years....These people are clowns. They don't deserve to root for winners. They deserve to be fans of teams that don't go to the playoffs for nearly two decades.

It's really, really sad.

Well said.

[86WARD]

If the team cuts or encourages to retire Ben, Pouncey, Haden, and McDonald -- that is +$17 million in cap space. Meaning (based on https://overthecap.com/calculator/pittsburgh-steelers/) they go from -$21 million to +$17 million with just those 4 changes.

Take Haden out of it and it is +$10 million in cap.

I have no idea if those moves are good or bad ideas. Just jumping off Desert Steel's idea that there are some serious business decisions to be made between now and the start of the league year in March.

I keep seeing people wanting to cut/not re-sign Many players. At some point, you are going to have to field a roster. Are people looking to put together a competitive roster or just a full roster?

[86WARD]

Also, I am the last guy to every advocate for firing people. But, at this point, three questions need answered:

1. Is the prioritization of pass blocking over run blocking a decision by Fichtner or to cater the offense to Ben R?
2. Is the lack of RPO and play action a decision by Fichtner or to cater the offense to Ben R?
3. Is the short passing game a decision by Fichtner or to insulate a diminished Ben R from throws he can not reliably make anymore?

Depending on how those questions are answered, the path forward on offense gets some clarity.

Honestly, no matter what, I think Fichtner needs to go. I think he was a good coach for Ben in his prime. Ben is no longer in his prime, so he needs a coach who can cover that up if Ben plays in 2021+. If Ben doesn't play, turn the thing over to Canada (that is why they brought him - regardless of what they said in public) and see what you can do.

Ben doesn’t like to do play action. That’s on him.

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

I'm fine with moving on from Ben. I just defend him when people are screaming at him because they don't realize others are responsible for some mistakes that he gets blamed for.

The OL needs to be retooled.

The offensive scheme needs to be scrapped or highly modified.

Fichtner needs to go.

Some established players need to be let go. We probably made the playoffs last year if not for Fichtner babying the QB's. He has to go and Ben as well and you can't be a NFL QB worried to be hit constantly! Pouncey got to go as well an man did he kept screwing us all game. Take his Pro Bowl arse to another team.

[fansince'76]

Some of you are gonna learn what it was like to be excited that a guy like Mark Malone, Bubby Brister or Tommy Maddox got the Steelers to the playoffs.

More like they're going to learn to temper their expectations greatly when they find out that franchise QBs don't grow on trees...

[Six Rings]

JuJu is really the only receiver that consistently catches the ball.

I'd say Washington and Claypool are reliable.

[teegre]

As dislocatedday said:

Cut ties with Ben, Pouncey, Haden, Ebron, McDonald.

DeCastro was playing through injury; so, he gets a pass.

I keep JuJu. He is the only receiver who can get open consistently, catches the ball consistently, fights for extra yardage, and doesn’t run backwards.

[DesertSteel]

Ray got the report card right.

https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/steelers/2021/01/10/pittsburgh-steelers-cleveland-browns-nfl-wild-card-playoffs-grades-report-card/stories/202101100188

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

As dislocatedday said:

Cut ties with Ben, Pouncey, Haden, Ebron, McDonald.

DeCastro was playing through injury; so, he gets a pass.

I keep JuJu. He is the only receiver who can get open consistently, catches the ball consistently, fights for extra yardage, and doesn’t run backwards. I will argue Washington does the same. Ben gets the ball out so quick and why Washington is the lost man.

[teegre]

I will argue Washington does the same. Ben gets the ball out so quick and why Washington is the lost man.

Washington needs more time to get open?

Please, clarify.

[DesertSteel]

More like they're going to learn to temper their expectations greatly when they find out that franchise QBs don't grow on trees...
So to use a Tomlinism, we should just live in our fears and just watch Ben turn into Willie Mays at the end of his career. Because we might end up worse? That mentality has nothing to do with being a fan. The organization has been nothing but good to Ben from day 1, even when his off field behavior embarrassed the Rooney’s. It’s now time to move forward. And the truth is that the Steelers won as many games in the 8-10 years before Ben’s arrival as they have the last 8-10 years of Ben’s career.

[fansince'76]

So to use a Tomlinism, we should just live in our fears and just watch Ben turn into Willie Mays at the end of his career. Because we might end up worse? That mentality has nothing to do with being a fan. The organization has been nothing but good to Ben from day 1, even when his off field behavior embarrassed the Rooney’s. It’s now time to move forward. And the truth is that the Steelers won as many games in the 8-10 years before Ben’s arrival as they have the last 8-10 years of Ben’s career.

Not at all. I think it's time for Ben to retire. But I think people need to realize that we have a much greater chance, historically speaking, of winding up with someone like Trubisky than we do with Mahomes, that's all.

I caught some of that Saints/Bears game. Ugly. Talk about a great defense being squandered - it was like watching the mid-90s Steelers all over again. The homecooked officiating to ensure another Brady/Brees matchup didn't make it any better either.

[dislocatedday]

As dislocatedday said:

Cut ties with Ben, Pouncey, Haden, Ebron, McDonald.

DeCastro was playing through injury; so, he gets a pass.

I keep JuJu. He is the only receiver who can get open consistently, catches the ball consistently, fights for extra yardage, and doesn’t run backwards.

Without releasing/restructuring any players that are under contract for next year, The Steelers are sitting at $202 million against the cap. Cutting ties with those players listed above reclaims approximately $51 million in cap space (Decastro would add another 8 million to it), which would bring that number down to $151 million.

If the cap goes down to the floor of $175 million then the Steelers would have $24 million to work with this offseason with the above cuts. I'd rather keep some younger guys who are still in their prime, rather than hold onto these older guys who are just not worth that amount of money. It's the rough side of the business, but I'd rather the team bite the bullet this year. They still have a good , young defense, and a good set of young WRs. The team is not barren or bereft of talent, but I do not think they are winning a Super Bowl with the current offense and they will need to get the Oline and running game improved...............and obviously figure out the QB situation.

The team can't just stand pat though this offseason, and I surely do not want them to do a bunch of restructures of these older players in order to get under the cap. That just makes the future cap situation even worse and prevents them from re-tooling/re-loading (...I prefer that term as there are some good pieces on the team....).

[FrancoLambert]

There better be significant changes in coaches and players.
Coming back with the same cast will change nothing.
A lot of dead wood has been exposed.
Time to make tough decisions.

[dislocatedday]

There better be significant changes in coaches and players.
Coming back with the same cast will change nothing.
A lot of dead wood has been exposed.
Time to make tough decisions.

I think they will finally make those tough decisions. I hope Colbert stays on at least 2-3 more years to get this team some more young talent and set them up with the QB going forward.....and perhaps bring in the next HC if something happens with Tomlin in that time span.

[JimHarbaugh'ssoakedtissue]

Washington needs more time to get open?

Please, clarify.


Sure he runs longer routes then DJ and Ebron! Should be obvious!

[86WARD]

Love how everyone wants to cut everyone and have plenty of “cap space”. The. What are you going to do with the cap space and the empty roster?? Lol.

[Fire Goodell]

Love how everyone wants to cut everyone and have plenty of “cap space”. The. What are you going to do with the cap space and the empty roster?? Lol.

tank for a qb? :chuckle:

[DesertSteel]

tank for a qb? :chuckle:
Reek for Rattler.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Love how everyone wants to cut everyone and have plenty of “cap space”. The. What are you going to do with the cap space and the empty roster?? Lol.

I know, laughable huh.

You plan to pay, or pay for the young guys that will contribute the next 4 years. Fitzpatrick, Watt, Bush,, DeCastro, Tuitt, Claypool, JuJu, Dotson, Okorafor, maybe even Johnson are the core to move forward with. I know the haters are gonna hack on JuJu, but if you can get him with a reasonable contract, he is the most reliable receiver on the team right now and you cant just let everbody walk.

Use the excess cap space for some veteran depth or fill some holes, while your draft picks develop. If Ben and Pouncey are not part of the Steelers in 2021, then you look for a veteran QB and center. AluAlu and Cam getting old, so need depth via FA or the draft. Haden is likely gone and Hilton and Feiler could get decent contracts, so look at moving forward with Dotson and then pay Sutton.

Some people think this is such a puzzle, but its been done by tons of teams, including the Steelers, all the time. Time to plan for moving to the future, rather than clutching awkwardly at the past, IMO.

[pczach]

I know, laughable huh.

You plan to pay, or pay for the young guys that will contribute the next 4 years. Fitzpatrick, Watt, Bush,, DeCastro, Tuitt, Claypool, JuJu, Dotson, Okorafor, maybe even Johnson are the core to move forward with. I know the haters are gonna hack on JuJu, but if you can get him with a reasonable contract, he is the most reliable receiver on the team right now and you cant just let everbody walk.

Use the excess cap space for some veteran depth or fill some holes, while your draft picks develop. If Ben and Pouncey are not part of the Steelers in 2021, then you look for a veteran QB and center. AluAlu and Cam getting old, so need depth via FA or the draft. Haden is likely gone and Hilton and Feiler could get decent contracts, so look at moving forward with Dotson and then pay Sutton.

Some people think this is such a puzzle, but its been done by tons of teams, including the Steelers, all the time. Time to plan for moving to the future, rather than clutching awkwardly at the past, IMO.



JuJu is also the most physical WR. This team needs more of that. JuJu and Claypool give you two guys that would compliment a physical offensive line and run game perfectly. That should be the objective going forward.

[teegre]

Without releasing/restructuring any players that are under contract for next year, The Steelers are sitting at $202 million against the cap. Cutting ties with those players listed above reclaims approximately $51 million in cap space (Decastro would add another 8 million to it), which would bring that number down to $151 million.

If the cap goes down to the floor of $175 million then the Steelers would have $24 million to work with this offseason with the above cuts. I'd rather keep some younger guys who are still in their prime, rather than hold onto these older guys who are just not worth that amount of money. It's the rough side of the business, but I'd rather the team bite the bullet this year. They still have a good , young defense, and a good set of young WRs. The team is not barren or bereft of talent, but I do not think they are winning a Super Bowl with the current offense and they will need to get the Oline and running game improved...............and obviously figure out the QB situation.

The team can't just stand pat though this offseason, and I surely do not want them to do a bunch of restructures of these older players in order to get under the cap. That just makes the future cap situation even worse and prevents them from re-tooling/re-loading (...I prefer that term as there are some good pieces on the team....).

I agree, for the most part. I still say that DeCastro is worth keeping. Pouncey has been looking weaker every season; whereas, DeCastro simply appeared to be playing injured this season. Im for a youth movement, but he’s also currently our best O-lineman (and I’m not sure that I want an O-line comprised of two rookies and three second-year starters).

- - - Updated - - -


JuJu is also the most physical WR. This team needs more of that. JuJu and Claypool give you two guys that would compliment a physical offensive line and run game perfectly. That should be the objective going forward.

100

Plus, he’s consistent. DJ might be more dynamic, but you can’t count on him. When I see the ball heading his way, I assume he’s going to drop it OR he will catch it and run backwards. Every so often, he surprises me (and it’s usually a very good RAC), but it’s never a sure thing.

[Six Rings]

Fixed it for you

Co signed. You might want to add a better long snapper to the list too. Not that I'm for spending a draft choice on one.

1,000 posts.

[dislocatedday]

- - - Updated - - -


I agree, for the most part. I still say that DeCastro is worth keeping. Pouncey has been looking weaker every season; whereas, DeCastro simply appeared to be playing injured this season. Im for a youth movement, but he’s also currently our best O-lineman (and I’m not sure that I want an O-line comprised of two rookies and three second-year starters).

I do not think the team should release DeCastro. I was just indicating that if for some reason the team needed to clear space that they could get another $8 million from him. I would just like for them to keep some of their proven, younger guys who are FA if they can.

- - - Updated - - -



100

Plus, he’s consistent. DJ might be more dynamic, but you can’t count on him. When I see the ball heading his way, I assume he’s going to drop it OR he will catch it and run backwards. Every so often, he surprises me (and it’s usually a very good RAC), but it’s never a sure thing.


I agree, and I think they should make a solid effort to keep JuJu. I do not think he should get a mega $$$ deal like Michael Thomas or Keenan Allen signed more recently, but more along the lines of $12 million per year or so. Diontae Johnson is not due for his next contract for another couple years and Claypool just played his rookie year so he is under contract for next 3-4 years. Signing Juju to a 3-4 year deal now seems reasonable to me as long as he is not wanting a mega deal. Sportrac (and I do not know the specifics of how it works, but I assume it compares his stats against other guys) indicates his market value is $15.75 million per year, which seems too high to me, but I am not an expert of this stuff.

I do not really think the team should release DeCastro. I was just indicating that if for some reason the team needed to clear space above $51 million that they could get another $8 million from him. I would just like for them to keep some of their proven, younger guys who are FA if they can.

[Six Rings]

Love how everyone wants to cut everyone and have plenty of “cap space”. The. What are you going to do with the cap space and the empty roster?? Lol.


Promote the younger, cheaper and more durable players? Pouncey is cooked. He has been out before, and we don't miss him much when he was in his prime. His last game could have been his worst.

Do you think Ben is worth 41 million next year?

I want to keep Ju-Ju. We can't afford it. Please go for more than that I'll take a 4th or 5th round comp pick in 2022. Ju-Ju is going to demand 9+million a year, and once " paid " This cat could very well go diva on you. Teams with diva receivers usually don't win a super bowl. Speaking of comp picks, I'm going to create a thread on it later. It's our best path in 2022.

It was 4th and 1 two nights ago on our window to play in another super bowl. We punted. Now, the aftermath and second guessing what could have been for the last ten years.

[teegre]

I agree, and I think they should make a solid effort to keep JuJu. I do not think he should get a mega $$$ deal like Michael Thomas or Keenan Allen signed more recently, but more along the lines of $12 million per year or so. Diontae Johnson is not due for his next contract for another couple years and Claypool just played his rookie year so he is under contract for next 3-4 years. Signing Juju to a 3-4 year deal now seems reasonable to me as long as he is not wanting a mega deal. Sportrac (and I do not know the specifics of how it works, but I assume it compares his stats against other guys) indicates his market value is $15.75 million per year, which seems too high to me, but I am not an expert of this stuff.

Exactly :nod:

From the list that I saw, the receivers making $15 million were in a different tier than JuJu. Honestly, $12 would be his highest (which a team with cap since could indeed offer), but I think that we can get him to stay in “Pittsburgh” for about $10 million.

[86WARD]

I know, laughable huh.

You plan to pay, or pay for the young guys that will contribute the next 4 years. Fitzpatrick, Watt, Bush,, DeCastro, Tuitt, Claypool, JuJu, Dotson, Okorafor, maybe even Johnson are the core to move forward with. I know the haters are gonna hack on JuJu, but if you can get him with a reasonable contract, he is the most reliable receiver on the team right now and you cant just let everbody walk.

Use the excess cap space for some veteran depth or fill some holes, while your draft picks develop. If Ben and Pouncey are not part of the Steelers in 2021, then you look for a veteran QB and center. AluAlu and Cam getting old, so need depth via FA or the draft. Haden is likely gone and Hilton and Feiler could get decent contracts, so look at moving forward with Dotson and then pay Sutton.

Some people think this is such a puzzle, but its been done by tons of teams, including the Steelers, all the time. Time to plan for moving to the future, rather than clutching awkwardly at the past, IMO.

I’m with you. Some of the lists are crazy though. Pretty much anyone that is a veteran or free agent is gone. It’s really like 1/3 of the roster. Lol.

JuJu and Hilton would be my top priorities this off season. As someone else said, JuJu brings a physicality that the team needs and match him up with Claypool and you’re solid for a long time. I’d also try to get him outside a little more as well. Hilton brings that game changing ability on defense...up there with Watt and Fitzpatrick. I’d do what ever I need to keep those two part of the core.

[teegre]

I’m with you. Some of the lists are crazy though. Pretty much anyone that is a veteran or free agent is gone. It’s really like 1/3 of the roster. Lol.

JuJu and Hilton would be my top priorities this off season. As someone else said, JuJu brings a physicality that the team needs and match him up with Claypool and you’re solid for a long time. I’d also try to get him outside a little more as well. Hilton brings that game changing ability on defense...up there with Watt and Fitzpatrick. I’d do what ever I need to keep those two part of the core.

What might convince JuJu to sign elsewhere isn’t necessarily money. If a team lets him play outside, he might jump at that opportunity. So, Yes, letting him know that he will play more outside for the Steelers might be critical during negotiations.

[W&M_Steeler]

Exactly :nod:

From the list that I saw, the receivers making $15 million were in a different tier than JuJu. Honestly, $12 would be his highest (which a team with cap since could indeed offer), but I think that we can get him to stay in “Pittsburgh” for about $10 million.

I doubt that JuJu is back. My bet is that some team like the Jets will overpay for JuJu on the belief that JuJu can be a true #1 receiver.

[teegre]

I doubt that JuJu is back. My bet is that some team like the Jets will overpay for JuJu on the belief that JuJu can be a true #1 receiver.

Honestly, they would be correct. When targeted 20+ yards he had a 100% catch-rate. He just wasn’t targeted downfield very often in this offense. In fact, in the five games without AB where JuJu played outside (before the moved him permanently to the slot), he had 100 yard games in each of those.

JuJu loves Sam Darnold. If the Jets keep Darnold, I could see them offering JuJu $15-$17 million. Add in DeVonta Smith, and BOOM!!! the Jets have a passing attack worth a darn.

[dislocatedday]

A concern for this team in another couple years will be the defensive line. They are getting up there in years, with Heyward and Alualu both already old by NFL standards, and Tuitt is in his prime at 27 years old now.

While I think the Oline is the immediate priority. I think starting next year they need to start spending some high picks again on the Dline. I realize they could not keep Hargrave last year, but I wish there was some way they could have.

There is still the old line of thinking that football is won in the trenches, and I agree in that everything starts from there, and I would hate for the Steelers to not be strong along both lines (...and I don't think the Oline is strong enough right now..).

[W&M_Steeler]

A concern for this team in another couple years will be the defensive line. They are getting up there in years, with Heyward and Alualu both already old by NFL standards, and Tuitt is in his prime at 27 years old now.

While I think the Oline is the immediate priority. I think starting next year they need to start spending some high picks again on the Dline. I realize they could not keep Hargrave last year, but I wish there was some way they could have.

There is still the old line of thinking that football is won in the trenches, and I agree in that everything starts from there, and I would hate for the Steelers to not be strong along both lines (...and I don't think the Oline is strong enough right now..).

I think D-line is already a concern. They sure had a disappearing act Sunday night! All three starters will likely be gone within the next three years (with the possible exception of Tuitt, but he's had a bad injury history so who knows- it seemed like a somewhat down year for him this year anyway). Unfortunately, the looming rebuild looks like it's shaping up to be a massive project. The 2010s were disappointing. The 2020s look like they might be downright ugly.

[dislocatedday]

I think D-line is already a concern. They sure had a disappearing act Sunday night! All three starters will likely be gone within the next three years (with the possible exception of Tuitt, but he's had a bad injury history so who knows- it seemed like a somewhat down year for him this year anyway). Unfortunately, the looming rebuild looks like it's shaping up to be a massive project. The 2010s were disappointing. The 2020s look like they might be downright ugly.

Yeah, I do have some concerns now but I just think the bigger concerns are on the offensive side of the ball. The team will not be able to "replenish" or stock up on everything at once. I think the Oline, another RB, a TE, and obviously the uncertainty at QB are ahead of Dline this offseason. I think getting high picks invested in the Dline becomes an absolute necessity in 2022 and 2023.

However, the Steelers front office may see things differently, and depending on what players are available when in the upcoming draft they may go Dline somewhere in the early rounds.

[dislocatedday]

I am kind of excited to see where the Steelers go this offseason. I think next season might be rough going, but I just want to see the team make some choices and implement a plan going forward into this next decade of football. I do not want to see them just sputter along indecisively and try to keep a core of aging and expensive veteran players together for "one last push". I'd rather see them keep some younger guys who are going into Free Agency this offseason that can make a difference for the next few years, and build the remaining roster through the drafts.

Of course, finding the right long-term QB sooner rather than later will make everything else easier.

[BlackAndGold]

JuJu is gone. No way should the Steelers pay him $15+ mil. He and Bud will bring back two 22' 3rd round comp pick. DJ and Claypool are your future. Dulac noted after the game that reports are JuJu wants to play in a major market and expand his brand. So New York or back close to home out West.


Sutton, Feiler(moves back to RT), Alualu are three players I see the Steelers prioritize to re-sign.

[86WARD]

JuJu is gone. No way should the Steelers pay him $15+ mil. He and Bud will bring back two 22' 3rd round comp pick. DJ and Claypool are your future. Dulac noted after the game that reports are JuJu wants to play in a major market and expand his brand. So New York or back close to home out West.


Sutton, Feiler(moves back to RT), Alualu are three players I see the Steelers prioritize to re-sign.

Nobody should be giving JuJu that kind of money. His price range should be in the 7.5 to 10 million range.

[Blast Furnace]

Even if you went out and got another OC, Tomlin's offensive acumen is about as good as what my cat throws up. He will quickly neuter him with his offensive desires and we will still continue to suck ass. Tomlin just can't help himself - he just brings everyone down to his suckaledge level! He uses his vast vocabulary to make you think he is smart, but when his see his work, you walk a way shaking your head with that WTF look frozen on your face! The point is: if you get rid of RF, nothing will change unless you also get rid of MT! Now, that could be avoided if Art hires a new coordinator and tells MT to keep his hands off and his mouth shut!

[teegre]

A concern for this team in another couple years will be the defensive line. They are getting up there in years, with Heyward and Alualu both already old by NFL standards, and Tuitt is in his prime at 27 years old now.

While I think the Oline is the immediate priority. I think starting next year they need to start spending some high picks again on the Dline. I realize they could not keep Hargrave last year, but I wish there was some way they could have.

There is still the old line of thinking that football is won in the trenches, and I agree in that everything starts from there, and I would hate for the Steelers to not be strong along both lines (...and I don't think the Oline is strong enough right now..).

I’m calling it now: JJ Watt will be playing NT for the Steelers in the 2021 season.

But, Yes, after next season, we are going to need to two starters on the D-line. Draft one early, and one late in each of the next two drafts. Hope to hit on another Tuitt and an Aaron Smith with two of those four.

[dislocatedday]

I’m calling it now: JJ Watt will be playing NT for the Steelers in the 2021 season.

But, Yes, after next season, we are going to need to two starters on the D-line. Draft one early, and one late in each of the next two drafts. Hope to hit on another Tuitt and an Aaron Smith with two of those four.

I did not want to suggest JJ Watt, because it would be adding another older player to the D-line, but this was in the back of my mind............if the team clears out some cap space and gets some money to work with, I could easily see JJ Watt coming here for maybe $5-$7 million per year on a 2 or 3 year deal to play in a D-line rotation. He would fill a need, and buy the team a little more time in getting younger help along the D-line.

[teegre]

I did not want to suggest JJ Watt, because it would be adding another older player to the D-line, but this was in the back of my mind............if the team clears out some cap space and gets some money to work with, I could easily see JJ Watt coming here for maybe $5-$7 million per year on a 2 or 3 year deal to play in a D-line rotation. He would fill a need, and buy the team a little more time in getting younger help along the D-line.

Exactly!!! A “hometown” discount to play on the same team as his brothers.

Contract-wise: Watt replaces Alualu.

[Six Rings]

I am assuming this team will start a rebuild/re-tool (call it whatever you want). I think it is time to do this, particularly on offense. Looking at next year's salary cap charges, and the need to free up some money, here is where I would start with players not coming back to the Steelers:

Ben - Retire or Cut - He has a $41 million cap charge, with a $22 million dead cap hit if he is cut. The team gets $19 million back.

Haden - I like Haden, but he will be another year older and he has a cap charge of approximately $15.5 million - If he is released the team carries a cap hit of just under $3 million...so the team gets back about $12.5 million

Pouncey - $14.475 million cap charge next year if he is on roster. If he is cut he will count $6.475 against cap but team gets back $8 million.

Decastro - Similar to Pouncey - $14.297 million cap charge. If he is cut he will count $5.547 million against cap but team gets back about $8.5 million

Ebron - Carries a $8.5 million cap charge. If he is cut he will count $2.5 million against cap, but team gets back $6 million

McDonald - Carries a $7.925 million cap charge. If he is cut he will count $2.727 against the cap, but the team gets back $5.2 million.

So with getting rid of those guys who are not worth those contracts, the team will recoup $59.2 million by my math.

This makes getting guys on the Oline a priority and the team needs a TE too, as well as QB obviously, but I think the team should bite the bullet and do this going forward. I think they could turn around and sign some of these younger guys going into their prime who are FAs (JuJu, Dupree).

I'm not opposed to an all new coaching staff, but I do not think Tomlin will get axed. At a minimum though, I see no good reason to bring Fichtner back as OC.

If the Steelers want to replace Tomlin, now is the time to interview people. What's the point in having Tomlin hire a new OC? And who would want the job knowing the QB is on his way out and the head coach might change too? The Steelers aren't interviewing.

Of the players you mentioned Haden is tricky. We might lose Hilton and Sutton. Then what? Haden's value goes way up. Un-drafted James Pierre becomes the starter as he has passes Lewis who very much looks like a bad draft pick. Nothing against Pierre but he ran a 4.59, has small hands and has limited leaping ability ( Pro day numbers ). This combined with a FAU schedule makes me wonder if he will be exposed in the NFL after starting a few games. Maybe he's a top technician? Dunno

https://nflcombineresults.com/playerpage.php?f=James&l=Pierre&i=30239

Since we can save a ton on Haden, maybe he can give us a home town deal. I do not want to draft a CB high. It's not something the Steelers are good at.

[dislocatedday]

If the Steelers want to replace Tomlin, now is the time to interview people. What's the point in having Tomlin hire a new OC? And who would want the job knowing the QB is on his way out and the head coach might change too? The Steelers aren't interviewing.

Of the players you mentioned Haden is tricky. We might lose Hilton and Sutton. Then what? Haden's value goes way up. Un-drafted James Pierre becomes the starter as he has passes Lewis who very much looks like a bad draft pick. Nothing against Pierre but he ran a 4.59, has small hands and has limited leaping ability ( Pro day numbers ). This combined with a FAU schedule makes me wonder if he will be exposed in the NFL after starting a few games. Maybe he's a top technician? Dunno

https://nflcombineresults.com/playerpage.php?f=James&l=Pierre&i=30239

Since we can save a ton on Haden, maybe he can give us a home town deal. I do not want to draft a CB high. It's not something the Steelers are good at.

Those are all valid questions/concerns. The Steelers have some work to do going forward and some key decisions to make. I assume Tomlin is staying, so I think the first thing is to figure out what the future is with Roethlisberger and the OC, and then work down from there on the other positions. I do not think there is any way they let all three of Haden, Sutton, and Hilton leave.

[Dwinsgames]

Got to keep Sutton , he will be the most reasonably priced IMO and he is not the well known commodity that Hilton is ...Haden's age could keep his price down but he is a short term guy at this point 1-2 year deal and if 2 years team has to have a friendly out after 1....

as for Pierre , I'll wait n see but not put to many eggs in that basket remember Hilton was an UDFA too and the only reason he found success is because Steelers got eyes on him while scouting Senquez Golson whom they drafted in round 2 and medically flunked out of the league .. in steps Hilton and does everything we expected Golson to do at a much cheaper rate ...the price just went up dramatically tho ....

[Dwinsgames]

UNRESTRICTED: NT Tyson Alualu, T Zach Banner, P Jordan Berry, RB James Conner, SS Jordan Dangerfield, FS Sean Davis, QB Joshua Dobbs, OLB Bud Dupree, OLB Jayrone Elliott, G Matt Feiler, T Jerald Hawkins, CB Mike Hilton, G Danny Isidora, OLB Cassius Marsh, WR JuJu Smith-Schuster, CB Cam Sutton, T Alejandro Villanueva, ILB Avery Williamson, and DE Chris Wormley.




RESTRICTED: OLB Ola Adeniyi, WR Ray-Ray McCloud.


thats a whole lot of roster to fill with almost no money

[Mojouw]

I dunno, I am almost certainly wrong, but the idea of massive roster turnover just isn't that worrying to me anymore. I look at the various lists and I see like 4 guys that are above the "just an average NFL roster player" line. Is it really going to be all that hard to replace guys like Dangerfield and Sean Davis?

Hilton, Dupree, Sutton, and Juju will hurt. That's for sure. But think about it this way....those guys were not enough to get over the hump. So what is the point with maxing out and running it back? Time to take your cap medicine and identify another way to build out your roster.

It may not immediately bear fruit (I think the 2021 Steelers will take a step or two backwards) but it should be really interesting to watch.

[86WARD]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210114/d159a81c5e413b6a78fbfe47375e1637.jpg

[Shoes]

I hope we can keep Alualu & wormley

[86WARD]

Hilton, JuJu and Sutton are the three I want them to keep.

[Dwinsgames]

I dunno, I am almost certainly wrong, but the idea of massive roster turnover just isn't that worrying to me anymore. I look at the various lists and I see like 4 guys that are above the "just an average NFL roster player" line. Is it really going to be all that hard to replace guys like Dangerfield and Sean Davis?

Hilton, Dupree, Sutton, and Juju will hurt. That's for sure. But think about it this way....those guys were not enough to get over the hump. So what is the point with maxing out and running it back? Time to take your cap medicine and identify another way to build out your roster.

It may not immediately bear fruit (I think the 2021 Steelers will take a step or two backwards) but it should be really interesting to watch.


when Alu Alu was out the defense was significantly less successful , Feiler and AV while neither are "great" will still require a significant investment to replace and the continuity of the line itself being the left side of the line ( blind side ) so I believe they will be missed as well .... sure we can plug Dotson in at guard reducing the cost but that leaves nothing in terms of quality depth meaning we still need to address that with costly contracts we can not afford or draft picks which limits are ability to concentrate on the areas we are most deficient ...

RB
QB ( if Ben retires and maybe even if he does not )
LT
LG
ILB depth
OLB depth
NT
S depth

are all significant needs right now

[Mojouw]

when Alu Alu was out the defense was significantly less successful , Feiler and AV while neither are "great" will still require a significant investment to replace and the continuity of the line itself being the left side of the line ( blind side ) so I believe they will be missed as well .... sure we can plug Dotson in at guard reducing the cost but that leaves nothing in terms of quality depth meaning we still need to address that with costly contracts we can not afford or draft picks which limits are ability to concentrate on the areas we are most deficient ...

RB - one of the easiest positions to acquire talented players at. Just because the Steelers stink at it doesn't mean it is impossible.
QB ( if Ben retires and maybe even if he does not ) - this needs to happen no matter what
LT - Okafor and Hawkins
LG Dotson
ILB depth I would argue they have depth (Spillane) and need a STARTER
OLB depth Yup...this will be not easy
NT - Another issue. I suspect they can get Alualu to come back for another season at a reasonable cost
S depth At least they are finally going to have to address this!

are all significant needs right now

Looking at the above you hit the draft with three major needs: QB/C/RB and three depth needs S/OL/LB. It is an ambitious set of priorities and likely will not be accomplished in one draft and/or off-season. The depth of the roster will be compromised in 2021. But with the issues at QB...depth will be the least of their concerns.

For me, I have no interest in this team treading water and being a fringe playoff team for years. I would rather see a significant step back in 2021, take the cap medicine, rebuild the depth, acquire promising new players at key positions, and re-emerge as early as 2022 with a seriously competitive team.

Unfortunately, the Steelers are not wired this way. They will almost certainly try to have it all ways at once - rebuild, reload, and be compete. That is a tall order and is a feat rarely pulled off well.

[Squeegee Thompson]

Of that list of FAs, the only ones I think they have to try and keep are Dupree, Sutton and Hilton. It'd suck to lose JuJu, but he's really not as irreplaceable as he seemed to be earlier. The WR room is loaded. JuJu can go make his huge contract $ in Las Vegas.

Dupree is the guy who makes TJ the monster that he is. When he commands respect and help from the right side, that opens up the space for TJ to wreak his special brand of havoc. Maybe Hightower can take that role in a few years, but he's not there yet. As injuries have shown, you also need at least 3 exceptional OLBs in the 3-4 system. The odds of both of your starters taking the majority of the snaps for 16 games is extremely low. I'd like to see at least an offer made to Dupree, maybe even franchise tag the guy.

Hilton defines the personality of the secondary when he's out there. Nasty little SOB with a nose for the football and an uncanny ability to time and disguise his blitzes. When the rest of the defense seems content to just throw a shoulder into the Derrick Henrys of the league and hope they go down, Hilton flies around with complete disregard for his body and safety. If you wanna be the #1 defense in the NFL, you need more Hiltons and fewer Mark Barron-types. Tone-setters.

Sutton is the heir-apparent to Joe Haden when his time is up or he becomes a cap casualty. They don't exactly have a DB room full of lockdown-type guys right now, so that make his signing all the more important. He's shown steady improvement with each year and looks to be ready to take a starting role.

Most of the rest of those guys are just JAGs (Markus Allen, Sean Davis, Rodney Dangerfield, etc) or are over-the-hill and easily expendible (Villy, Alualu). Some painful cuts will need to happen, but I think they have to make a priority of signing Dupree, Hilton and Sutton.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Hilton, JuJu and Sutton are the three I want them to keep.

Banner tweeted today "best exit interview ever". I think a good chance that he and agent work a deal to be in B&G next season.

[dislocatedday]

I dunno, I am almost certainly wrong, but the idea of massive roster turnover just isn't that worrying to me anymore. I look at the various lists and I see like 4 guys that are above the "just an average NFL roster player" line. Is it really going to be all that hard to replace guys like Dangerfield and Sean Davis?

Hilton, Dupree, Sutton, and Juju will hurt. That's for sure. But think about it this way....those guys were not enough to get over the hump. So what is the point with maxing out and running it back? Time to take your cap medicine and identify another way to build out your roster.

It may not immediately bear fruit (I think the 2021 Steelers will take a step or two backwards) but it should be really interesting to watch.

Exactly, why should the Steelers need to try and keep a majority of those players, or expensive aging vets, when the team is not exactly consistently in the playoffs these past few years, much less competing for a SB?

Dupree, Hilton, Sutton, and JuJu are are the only players that would be good pieces going forward IMO (I like James Connor but I also think that he can be replaced). Some will leave for greener ($$$) pastures, but the Steelers will likely sign a couple of them (my guess is Sutton is at least one guy who stays).

The real blue-chip younger players are the ones they will need to retain on 2nd contracts and build around for the future (Watt, Fitzpatrick, Bush, Claypool are the current ones that come to my mind), and obviously we all hope they find another guy to be the long-term answer at QB within a couple years. Draft well from there and fill out the roster as necessary.