Steelers 2019 Free Agent Market Watch: The Offensive Tackles

Offensive line was definitely one of the strongest units for the Steelers last season, again featuring a Pro Bowler at LT in Alejandro Villanueva. Marcus Gilbert barely played as he missed the majority of the season with injuries. With Gerald Hawkins out all year and a super reserve in Chris Hubbard leaving via free agency to Cleveland, the Steelers ably filled Gilbert’s spot with Matt Feiler and Chuks Okorafor. With Feiler a free agent, decisions need to be made once again. Here are the top Free Agent opportunities at the position.

OT Trent Brown - New England Patriots

Brown shifted from the right side to Tom Brady’s blindside and had a very nice year that ended with a Suoer Bowl ring. The question regarding every Patriot Free Agent though is how good is the player or does the tremendous system in place mask things? He’s huge, has good footwork and can open holes/pass protect equally. The Steelers are set at LT, so Brown probably won’t get a look in Pittsburgh.

OT Daryl Williams - Carolina Panthers

The 26-year old was injured all of 2018, but had a fantastic 2017 protecting Cam Newton in Carolina. Presumed to be back in good health, Williams could probably start anywhere in the league and may just cash-in. The Steelers have needs to fill and Williams could fit, but his price may be high.

OT Matt Feiler - Pittsburgh Steelers

Feiler adapted quite well in relief of the injured Gilbert. It would be a good play to keep the 26-year old, but Chuks Okorafor could make it tough to retain him. But Feiler was still an integral part of PFF’s Offensive Line of the Year. So that merits consideration as well.

OT Ja'Wuan James - Miami Dolphins

James finally started to gel in 2017 before landing on the IR due to a groin injury. Last season, The 27-year old played through a knee injury, but struggled at times. The highest paid Right Tackle in the league is solid as a run blocker and pass protector. James could be a great fit in Pittsburgh, but he’s commanding a lot already.

OT George Fant - Seattle Seahawks

Fant is still a mostly unproven commodity, but has raw talent that could merit a look. The swing-man started the last six games at RT, after missing all of 2017. The Seahawks may put a tender on Fant, so that could affect going to a cash-strapped team like the Steelers.

Other Notable Offensive Linemen:

Cameron Fleming - Dallas Cowboys

Ty Nsekhe - Washington Redskins

Ty Sambrailo - Atlanta Falcons

Bobby Hart - Cincinnati Bengals

Donovan Smith- Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Kendall Lamm - Houston Texans