Steelers 2017 Free Agent Market Watch: The Offensive Tackles

Whether the position is of great need or can use more depth, BTSC continues to take a look at available free agents at each position. This time around it is Offensive Tackle.

By Bryan Anthony Davis@btscbad Feb 21, 2017, 5:00am EST

Indianapolis Colts v Jacksonville Jaguars

Offensive line was definitely one of the strongest units for the Steelers last season. However, that unit features an exclusive rights free agent in Alejandro Villanueva, a restricted free agent in the valuable reserve, Chris Hubbard and the uncertainty of Cody Wallace. While Big Al is expected to be offered a long-term deal, and Marcus Gilbert is solid on the right side, the Steelers could still use depth at OT and talent is available. Here are the top Free Agent opportunities, and whether or not they would be a possibility for the Steelers.

1. Andrew Whitworth - Cincinnati Bengals

Whitworth remains one of the league's finest at LT. A decline is expected soon at a player of his age of 35, but Whitworth still performs at a high level. A possible departure from Cincy would be a benefit to the Steelers, but I couldn't see him landing in Pittsburgh due to age and the emergence and improvement of Alejandro Villanueva.

2. Ricky Wagner - Baltimore Ravens

Wagner struggled when inserted into the Ravens lineup in his rookie year of 2013. Since then, he has emerged as a solid RT in Baltimore. Like Whitworth, talent like Wagner leaving the division would dilute rivals of the Steelers. At 27, Wagner is probably looking for starter money and the Steelers need depth behind Marcus Gilbert instead.

3. Matt Kalil - Minnesota Vikings

Kalil may find Pittsburgh to be a great landing spot. Decimated by injuries recently, the 28 year-old could benefit from playing for a line coach with the knowledge of Mike Munchak. Kalil, if healthy could come as a bargain, and has the skills that would be worth the gamble of staying healthy.

4. Riley Reiff - Detroit Lions

A 2012 first round selection, Reiff was moved to right tackle after the Lions spent a first rounder in 2016 on LT Taylor Decker. Reiff has a reputation as only an average blocker, so he may be a player that wouldn't break the bank, but would benefit from Mike Munchak's tutelage.

5. Ryan Clady - New York Jets

Clady is another guy who has been bitten by the injury bug a lot as of late. He would be a good addition to the depth of the Munch Bunch on a prove-it deal.

6. Kelvin Beachum -Jacksonville Jaguars

A year after signing him, Jacksonville declined the option on the former Steeler. He's had injury problems, but the fit has already been established. Take a flyer on Beach, if the price is right.

Other Notable Offensive Tackles

Sebastian Vollmer - New England Patriots

Mike Remmers - Carolina Panthers

Andre Smith - Minnesota Vikings

Ty Nsekhe - Washington Redskins

Gosder Cherilus - Tampa Bay Buccaneers

James Hurst - RFA-Baltimore Ravens

Eric Winston - Cincinnati Bengals

Chris Hubbard - RFA - Pittsburgh Steelers

Mike Adams - Chicago Bears

Menelik Wilson - The Raiders

Marshall Newhouse - New York Giants