Story by Yinzer Crazy Contributor Chris Krout. Follow him on Twitter @Chris_Krout
Omar Kahn has been a mastermind this offseason. Never during my 20 years of fanhood, have I seen the Pittsburgh Steelers make the kind of moves and signings that Khan has orchestrated since stepping into the role (see @scottmangan2 column that does a great job summarizing the Omar Kahn additions).
While Khan has done a great job rounding out the roster, here are a few names that the Steelers should still consider bringing in:
1. John Johnson III S
Johnson spent last season playing for the division rival Browns where he was able to tally 70 solo tackles and 4 QB hits. His ability to make the bang-bang plays in the run game, along with his above average coverage ability makes him a good fit for the Steelers. At just 28 years old, Johnson would easily step in and be the best Strong Safety option for the team this year and would give them flexibility in the future. He was a captain during his time with the Rams which shows his maturity, something that the Steelers value especially on defense.
2. Kyle Van Noy OLB
Nick Herbig is still very raw after being selected in the 4th round of the draft this season. I am willing to bet that he is going to join the likes of DeMarvin Leal and Isiahh Loudermilk as guys that have good upside, who aren't getting a ton of playing time early. This is where a 10-year veteran with plenty of experience makes a lot of sense. Van Noy could prove to be a reliable rotation piece for the Steelers, as he is a sure tackler when it comes to run game. Also, it is no secret that off ball LBs are not exactly the strength of this team, and Van Noy could be a positive asset in that area as well. While Watt and Highsmith are clearly the starting duo, Kyle was able to rack up 46 tackles and 5 sacks on a Chargers team that featured Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack. I would love the signing.
#Chargers Khalil Mack gets the sack, but watch LB *Kyle Van Noy* blow up 76, literally trucking him out of the picture. Kenneth Murray Jr also had a similar play. Speaks to the physicality difference on this year’s team.
— Dan W. (@DanWSports) September 12, 2022
🎥: @KVN_03 | @KennethMurray pic.twitter.com/ihrI9x4TXr
3. Leonard Fournette RB
Scheme wise this signing just makes too much sense. Benny Snell leaving for FA opened up a spot for a down-hill power running back -- and Leonard Fournette fits the bill. For the right price, I believe that Fournette coming off the bench as a compliment for the Harris/Warren duo, would be the best 3-back rotation in the league. He was able to haul in 73 Catches for 523 yards last year as well which would offer a lot more versatility for this Steelers offense.
4. Yannick Ngakoue OLB/DE
Ngakoue is a great pass rusher and has finished with at least 8 sacks every year of his career. At 28 years old, he is a high caliber veteran that could help with development of the younger players on the roster. He also has a knack of forcing takeaways (21 career Forced Fumbles), which the Steelers could use more of after finishing middle of the pack in that area last year with 23. I would love if Omar capped off the offseason signings with Ngakoue.
Yannick Ngakoue - beautiful 'super man cross chop' vs Dan Moore (welcome to the NFL, rook!)... but he then immediately beats the RB chip block too
— Ben Fennell (@BenFennell_NFL) September 22, 2021
Freakshow rep... pic.twitter.com/HI6Gi67lli
5. Anthony Barr LB
What Barr brings to the table is a solid off the ball linebacker that can make plays at, and behind, the line of scrimmage. Anthony Barr would provide really good depth behind first year Steelers, Cole Holcomb and Elandon Roberts. Adding another veteran voice to this young locker room couldn’t hurt either.
Honorable Mentions:
Taylor Lewan (OT)
Kareem Hunt (RB)
Chris Wormley (DL)
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