When the league year begins in March, the Pittsburgh Steelers are going to be forced to make some challenging salary cap decisions related to several veterans. We already targeted these four players as being on the roster bubble due to their 2020 cap hits. We decided to dig into the draft prospects who will be available in the second through the fourth-round range for quality replacements.
Loss: LB Mark Barron, Replacement: Jacob Phillips | LB | LSU
Phillips isn’t quite the athlete we are used to seeing from LSU linebackers but he’s an excellent off-ball linebacker with good range and a willingness to go up and defend the run.
Loss: EDGE Anthony Chickillo, Replacement: Alex Highsmith | EDGE | Charlotte
Highsmith isn’t a name you’ve heard much to this point but he’s a high-energy guy who stepped up big last season. Chickillo’s impact was largely on special teams and Highsmith should excel there until he’s ready to contribute as an edge rusher.
Loss TE Vance McDonald, Replacement: Albert Okwuegbunam | TE | Missouri
There was a time when Okwuegbunam was considered a top prospect but his stock has tumbled a bit. Still, he’s a better athlete than any tight end the Steelers have on the roster and a quality pass catcher.
Loss: Ramon Foster, Replacement: Ben Bredeson | OG/C | Michigan
If Foster is released, Bredeson would make a great replacement. He’s got experience against a high level of competition and has proven to be a high-IQ player with definitive starter potential. He’s a powerful drive blocker who is built to be a starting guard in the NFL.
