If the Pittsburgh Steelers want to make a splash this offseason, they’ve got the financial runway to do it - and potentially a lot more, depending on how aggressive they get. As it stands, the Steelers are working with roughly $44.93 million in cap space. But that number could more than double - climbing all the way to $95.52 million - if the front office opts to move on from a handful of veteran contracts that no longer align with production or value.
And with Mike McCarthy stepping in as head coach, it’s fair to expect some shakeups. A new regime often brings new priorities, and that could mean tough calls on familiar faces.
Pittsburgh has 27 players set to hit free agency, with 22 of them unrestricted. That’s over half the roster up for negotiation - a massive undertaking that will force the team to weigh short-term needs against long-term flexibility.
Let’s break down some of the key names who could be on the chopping block - not out of spite or underperformance alone, but because the numbers just don’t add up anymore.
Jalen Ramsey, S - Potential Cap Savings: $19.5 million
Jalen Ramsey’s transition to safety was a bold move - and to his credit, he handled it with professionalism and flashes of the elite instincts that made him a household name at corner. But flashes aren’t enough to justify a contract of his size, especially when age and injuries are starting to chip away at the consistency.
Unless Ramsey is open to a significant pay cut, the Steelers may have to make a cold but calculated decision here. Nearly $20 million in savings is hard to ignore, especially for a player whose best days may be behind him.
Jonnu Smith, TE - Potential Cap Savings: $7 million
This one feels inevitable. Jonnu Smith was brought in largely because of his connection to Arthur Smith, but the reunion didn’t pan out.
Smith never carved out a reliable role in the offense, and his impact was minimal throughout the season. With $7 million on the line, the Steelers can’t afford to keep a tight end who hasn’t moved the needle.
That money could be better spent shoring up other areas - or even reinvesting in a younger, more versatile option at the position.
Patrick Queen, LB - Potential Cap Savings: $13.3 million
When Queen signed his big free-agent deal two years ago, it looked like the Steelers were locking down a dynamic playmaker in the middle of their defense. But since then, it’s been a mixed bag.
There have been moments - stretches of games where Queen flashed sideline-to-sideline range and solid tackling - but the consistency just hasn’t been there. For a player carrying a hefty cap number, that’s a problem.
Cutting Queen would free up over $13 million, which could be used to retool a linebacker corps that’s still searching for its identity.
Malik Harrison, LB - Potential Cap Savings: $4.75 million
Harrison came in with the promise of being a physical, downhill linebacker who could contribute on special teams and step in when needed. But in Pittsburgh, he’s mostly been a depth piece - and not one that’s made a strong case to stick around.
At nearly $5 million in potential savings, the Steelers may decide that money is better spent elsewhere. Depth is important, but not at that price tag if the production doesn’t match.
Mason Rudolph, QB - Potential Cap Savings: $3 million
This one might sting for some fans. Mason Rudolph has been around long enough to earn a loyal following, and he’s had his moments in black and gold.
But with McCarthy now at the helm, it’s entirely possible the Steelers look to overhaul the quarterback room. If Rudolph isn’t seen as part of that future, $3 million in savings could push the team to move on.
It’s not a massive number, but every bit counts when you're reshaping a roster - especially at the most important position on the field.
Brandin Echols, CB - Potential Cap Savings: $3 million
Echols might be the toughest call of the bunch. Signed as a depth piece, he ended up stepping into a starting role and held his own - arguably exceeding expectations given the circumstances.
But even solid play doesn’t always guarantee job security when cap space is on the line. Cutting Echols would save $3 million, and while that’s not a bank-breaking figure, it could be the difference between keeping a key free agent or adding a new piece elsewhere.
Still, it would be a tough goodbye considering how well he performed when called upon.
Bottom Line
The Steelers are in a position of strength heading into the offseason - but only if they’re willing to make some hard decisions. With nearly $45 million already available and the potential to push that number closer to $95 million, Pittsburgh has the means to reshape this roster in a big way. Whether that means reloading for a playoff push or laying the groundwork for a longer-term rebuild under McCarthy, the flexibility is there.
But cap space doesn’t win games by itself. It’s how you use it - and who you’re willing to let go - that defines whether an offseason is a success or a missed opportunity. The next few weeks will be telling.