Steelers facing serious financial decisions with 2023 draft class

[ASFN Admin]

For the first time in what seems like forever the Pittsburgh Steelers are heading into a contract offseason with multiple members of an eligible NFL draft class set to hit free agency and all of them worthy of a second contract. The only question is if that next contract will come in Pittsburgh or with another team. Here are our predictions for the Steelers 2027 free agent class.

Round 1 (Pick 14): Broderick Jones, OT (Georgia)​

This is a rough one because Jones suffered a neck injury last season while having his best year as a pro. Now, short of a miraculous recovery and comeback, his days in Pittsburgh are numbered. Jones still has a lot of great football ahead of him if he is healthy but it feels like Pittsburgh has already moved on.

Round 2 (Pick 32): Joey Porter Jr., CB (Penn State)​

We fully expect Porter to "hold in" once mandatory OTAs start next week and he's not willing to wait until the next offseason to get it. Porter is in line for a massive payday after back-to-back elite seasons. He's a guy the Steelers have to keep in the fold.

Round 2 (Pick 49): Keeanu Benton, DT (Wisconsin)​

Benton is playing for a new deal with the Steelers and should have every chance for it. Benton hasn't been consistent enough for a massive new deal but he's played well enough and we hope will play well enough in 2026 to warrant keeping on the roster.

Round 3 (Pick 93): Darnell Washington, TE (Georgia)​

Darnell Washington has been a solid performer for the Steelers and has quickly become a fan favorite due to his size and highlight reel plays. But the reality is he's not a top-tier weapon in the passing offense and should be re-signed accordingly.

Round 4 (Pick 132): Nick Herbig, EDGE/LB (Wisconsin)​

Aside from Porter, Herbig is the guy who is in line for a massive payday. We are much more confident that the Steelers are willing to write the big check to Porter and as of now, we think Herbig's huge new contract will come from another team.

Round 7 (Pick 251): Spencer Anderson, OL (Maryland)​

It isn't often we are talking contracts with a former seventh-round pick but Anderson has been excellent and if he gets the nod at right guard this season will make himself some money. Anderson's versatility makes him an easy choice and even if he gets a full season under his belt, he won't demand a massive contract, so we think he comes back to Pittsburgh.

This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers facing serious financial decisions with 2023 draft class

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