Quarterbacks are quite clearly the most valuable position in football and at the moment, it's a question mark for the Pittsburgh Steelers. So before we get started, there's one exception: no quarterbacks. As a result, the answer for this question would be a bit too obvious. Ben Roethlisberger and Terry Bradshaw would be too easy of answers. With that all being said, it's time to move into the debate of this question.
Offense or Defense for the Steelers?
To start, it makes sense to eliminate the positions that don't necessarily need an upgrade. Running back is set with Najee Harris. The same can be said for the outside linebackers, kicker, and even tight end. Now, would you make an already good defense even better? Or continue upgrades on the offensive side of the ball? As long as Diontae Johnson doesn't do a sit out for any significant time, the wide receiver position seems mostly set. Johnson, George Pickens, and Chase Claypool makes for a talented, versatile trio. Antonio Brown would obviously bring a lot to the table to the present-day Steelers, but there are positions of more dire need.
Antonio Brown (#84) celebrates at Heinz Field. | Keith Srakocic / Associated Press
That leaves the offensive line or somewhere on the defensive side of the ball. The offensive line made some significant improvements this off-season, including the signing of interior offensive lineman, James Daniels. The Steelers don't really have any premier offensive tackles in the history to the point of selecting one of them. With Daniels primed to play right guard, that leaves the center and left guard positions open. Mason Cole seems primed to start at center with Kevin Dotson at left guard. Center would be the more wise selection, as Dotson provides some upside. That leaves multiple talented guys, including Maurkice Pouncey, Dermontti Dawson, and Mike Webster.
The answer here has to be Mike Webster. In 15 seasons with the Steelers, Webster made five All-Pro teams and nine Pro Bowl teams along with four Super Bowl rings. He was eventually selected to the Hall of Fame in 1997.
Defensively, there's a few guys to look at. Troy Polamalu, Mel Blount, and Rod Woodson immediately come to mind to shore up the defensive backfield. While Myles Jack and Devin Bush are a talented duo in the middle, Jack Lambert and Jack Ham would still be significant upgrades.
While the Steelers made attempts to improve the cornerback room this off-season, another one wouldn't be a bad option. Even "Mean" Joe Greene would be a great choice, especially after the retirement of Stephon Tuitt. Solidifying the middle of the defense makes the most sense though, thus leaving Lambert and Ham. It's comparing two elite greats at that point, so I'll leave that choice to you guys.
Hypothetically, what former Steelers player would you put on the present-day black and gold? Would you go offense or defense? Ham or Lambert? Let us know below in the comments on your thoughts!
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