The Steelers have already spent this offseason trying to shore up a roster that still has work to do, and one more move could make a real difference up front. Mekhi Becton fits that idea perfectly: a former first-round pick with Super Bowl and All-Pro credentials who suddenly finds himself looking for another shot.
Becton’s resume still carries weight. In 2024 with the Philadelphia Eagles, he played a key role after moving to right guard, helping open running lanes for Saquon Barkley on the way to Barkley’s all-time single-season rushing record, including playoffs, at 2,504. That stretch added to Becton’s reputation and helped turn his season into a major success.
But 2025 told a different story. The Los Angeles Chargers gave him a two-year, $20 million deal, and the fit never really clicked. Becton finished 72nd among 81 offensive guards in Pro Football Focus' pass block grading at 45.2, while allowing 37 pressures, three sacks, and seven quarterback pressures.
That downturn led to his release, and it also put a motivated veteran back on the market. For Pittsburgh, that matters.
The Steelers are not in panic mode, but they do need more help, especially with Broderick Jones’s neck injury having been a concern earlier in the offseason. That issue was serious enough to push the team to draft Max Iheanachor in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
The bigger picture is simple: the Steelers need their offensive line to hold up. Aaron Rodgers can still offer something, but only if he’s protected. Without that, he becomes vulnerable and frustrated.
Los Angeles cut Becton and saved $9.7 million in cap space shortly after the new deal, a quick response to a rough season. Now he’s available again, and Pittsburgh could take a low-risk swing. A one-year deal would give Becton a chance to rebuild his value, while giving the Steelers another experienced body with a track record of high-level play.
If Omar Khan’s front office wants to keep pushing toward contention, this is the kind of calculated gamble worth considering.
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