Former Steelers Lineman Could Be Most Realistic Reunion Option In Free Agency If Released By Chargers

There are plenty names in free agency that the Pittsburgh Steelers could choose to reunite with this offseason. Philadelphia Eagles defensive lineman Javon Hargrave would be a nice addition back on the defense, but he’ll come quite costly. Bud Dupree makes sense as a rotational edge rusher after the Tennessee Titans released him. There may just be another name that pops up on the market soon.

Offensive lineman Matt Feiler is likely to become a cap casualty with the Los Angeles Chargers. Several around the organization have identified him as a likely cut candidate, as well as Pro Football Focus. Feiler spent the first four seasons of his career in Pittsburgh, where he started 40 games. He became a solid lineman for the black and gold, and his versatility was quite useful. 

He eventually signed a three-year, $21 million deal with the Chargers, and he did quite well in his first season there. According to PFF, his 74.0 overall grade in 2021 ranked 12th out of 82 qualifying guards. Unfortunately, he had the worst season of his career in 2022, where he had just a 54.6 grade. Due to money and his decline in performance, the Chargers cutting him would make sense. According to Steelers beat writer Mark Kaboly of The Athletic, Feiler is a name to keep an eye on as a reunion for the black and gold:

“Feiler is still under contract, but word out of Los Angeles is that he could be part of a salary-cap purge. He can play all five offensive line positions, making him a valuable depth piece at worst. The Steelers are looking to get more consistent at left guard, and Feiler could push Kevin Dotson at a relatively good price,“ Kaboly said.

Due to Feiler’s disappointing performance in 2022, he may not be a starter for the Steelers. His versatility would become quite useful once again though, as he could fill in whenever is needed when an injury pops up. In 2022, the Steelers' starting five along the offensive line started all 17 games, but that luck will eventually run out. Not only do they need more top-end talent, but they also need more depth as well as Kendrick Green could be on his way out of town relatively shortly.

Could Feiler start over Dotson for Steelers' LG spot?

Of the Chargers' current roster, Feiler is due the 11th-largest cap hit in 2023 of $8.5 million. With just one year remaining on his original three-year deal, the Chargers would incur a $2 million dead cap hit if they were to get rid of him. As a result, they would save $6.5 million with the move, making it quite likely. In Los Angeles, Feiler has primarily played left guard, a position he's actually become accustomed to over the last three years. To start his career, he started 27 games in his first three seasons with the Steelers at right tackle.

With plenty of experience at left guard now, the 30-year-old could compete with Kevin Dotson for the Steelers' starting job. If he loses out, he would still be a competent backup with the ability to play multiple positions, including tackle. It's a move that almost makes too much sense for Pittsburgh's front office. The offensive line is still a pressing need and while this may not be a long-term option, it would help the depth immensely for a cheap price.

What would you think about bringing Feiler back to Pittsburgh? What kind of contract would you offer him if he becomes a free agent? Do you think he could win the starting job over Dotson? Share your thoughts on this possible free agent target in the comments below!

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