Steelers Could Bring Back 3 More Free Agents From 2022 Roster

Even when it seems like players don't want to return, the Pittsburgh Steelers find a way to sign some of their veterans back. Mason Rudolph re-signed with the Steelers after seemingly wanting nothing to do with the team anymore. There are other ex-Steelers that are looking for another job, and at this stage in the offseason, they might be more willing to come back at a reduced salary. Even if it's a one-year deal as a depth piece, a depth role is better than having no role at all. 

Who Might Come Back To The Steelers?

Steeler Nation had some Déjà vu when a former Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker underperformed with the Steelers and got cut after one year. However, with the big need for depth at linebacker, the Steeler could bring Myles Jack back, even though it would be at a much-reduced salary than in 2022. After being cut to make cap room for a pair of free agent signings, Jack has yet to find a landing spot. 

While Jack was a tackle machine, he never made a splash play. He only defended three passes and didn't record a single sack, interception, fumble, or fumble recovery. In fact, he was only able to pressure the opposing quarterback once. His tackling ability is still a plus, and he can come in specifically during heavy-run defense situations. As long as Jack is willing to do it, there's no reason why the Steelers shouldn't bring him back.

Sticking with the theme of linebacker depth, Marcus Allen could come back and continue to be the speedy coverage linebacker that the Steelers are missing on the team right now. He has always been a depth piece, as he made the transition from safety to linebacker later in his career. He hasn't had a chance to break out as a linebacker, but with the severe lack of depth, he could find himself getting more playing time defensively.

Even if Allen doesn't see the field more defensively, he can bring some continuity to the special teams, as many of the previous ST aces either are free agents or have been signed elsewhere. Allen brings more to the table than the other free agent special teamers, as there is a defensive role available for him as well. He could easily come cheap, and the Steelers should at least look into bringing him back for both defense and special teams.

Tyson Alualu would most likely be welcomed back to the Steelers with open arms, but not in a traditional way. Alualu failed to get back to 2020 form after breaking his leg in early 2021. He did not play well and lost the starting job to Montravius Adams. However, there is a saying that can help Alualu's case: "Those that can't do, teach." Even though he hasn't officially announced his retirement, this could still be a future endeavor for both Alualu and the Steelers.

Alualu could get a shot as an assistant coach for the Steelers defensively. He's been in all kinds of situations and played for great and terrible teams. He was a bust that was able to revive his career in his 30s. His knowledge of the game is all that he has left, and the Steelers would likely welcome extra coaching help. He can help Keanu Benton live up to his potential, as opposed to struggling to develop like Alualu did when the Jaguars drafted him.

What do you think about bringing these players back to the Steelers? Let us know in the comments below. 

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