Could a Pittsburgh Reunion Be in the Cards for Javon Hargrave?
Navigating NFL free agency is always a high-stakes game of risk and reward. Teams shell out big money hoping to land difference-makers, but not every signing pans out the way front offices envision.
The Pittsburgh Steelers know this all too well. Over the years, they’ve had their share of hits and misses in free agency - some additions have elevated the roster, others have fizzled out.
That’s the nature of the business.
One familiar face who could be back on the radar in Pittsburgh is defensive tackle Javon Hargrave. After a solid but not spectacular season with the Minnesota Vikings, the veteran lineman may soon be a cap casualty - and if that happens, a reunion with the team that drafted him might be worth exploring.
Hargrave’s Minnesota Chapter: Solid, But Not $30 Million Solid
The Vikings brought in Hargrave this past offseason on a two-year, $30 million deal, banking on his experience and interior presence to help solidify their defense. And to be fair, he’s contributed - just not quite at the level that matches the hefty price tag. That’s not to say he’s been ineffective, but when you’re paid like a top-tier defensive tackle, the expectations follow.
At 32, Hargrave’s best years may be behind him, and with his 33rd birthday coming in early February, the Vikings are facing a tough decision. If they part ways, they’d free up $11 million in cap space - a tempting move for a team looking to get younger and more financially flexible on defense.
Pittsburgh Roots Run Deep
Hargrave’s NFL journey started in Pittsburgh, where he was selected in the third round of the 2016 draft. He carved out a niche as a rotational piece on the Steelers’ defensive line, often playing behind stalwarts like Cam Heyward and Stephon Tuitt. Even in a limited role, his talent was evident, and after a strong 2019 season, he earned a big payday with the Eagles before eventually landing in San Francisco and then Minnesota.
Despite moving on, Hargrave has maintained close ties with his former teammates - especially Heyward. That connection could be a factor if Pittsburgh considers bringing him back into the fold.
Could a Reunion Make Sense?
Let’s be clear: the Steelers are in the middle of a youth movement up front. They’ve made it a priority to get younger and more explosive in the trenches. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for a veteran presence - especially one who knows the system, the culture, and what it means to wear the black and gold.
Hargrave might not be the disruptive force he once was, but he’s still a smart, reliable interior lineman who can contribute in a rotational role or step in as a spot starter. If the price is right - think a short-term, team-friendly deal - there’s value in bringing him back.
It wouldn’t just be a sentimental move. Hargrave could help mentor younger linemen, provide depth, and offer a stabilizing presence in the locker room. That’s the kind of leadership that doesn’t always show up on the stat sheet but matters when you're grinding through a 17-game season.
What’s Next?
All signs point to Minnesota moving on after this season, and if that happens, Hargrave will be one of the more intriguing veteran defensive tackles on the market. Teams looking for a plug-and-play option with playoff experience will take notice - and Pittsburgh should be one of them.
There’s no telling how much gas Hargrave has left in the tank, but a return to where it all started could be the spark he needs to close out his career on a high note. For the Steelers, it’s a low-risk move that could pay off in both performance and leadership.
Keep an eye on this one - it might just make too much sense to ignore.