The Steelers Are Desperate For Some Help On The Defensive Line: Here's Some Names To Look Out For

The Pittsburgh Steelers just braved an embarrassing 30-7 loss against the San Francisco 49ers. It was a game in which star running back Christian McCaffery carved up the Steelers defense for 152 rushing yards and a touchdown. Pittsburgh's run defense was one of their biggest downfalls during the game, especially when veteran Cam Heyward went down with an injury early in the game. It's obvious the Steelers might look for a trade partner to acquire a cornerstone on the defensive line, or they might test the waters in free agency to find some depth. 

Heyward has been a cornerstone on the defense for the Steelers for a decade. Pairing the big man to 2021 AP Defensive Player of the Year T.J. Watt, the duo has looked borderline unstoppable. Now Heyward is starting to show his age, dealing with multiple injuries and illnesses on and off the field. His most recent groin injury seemed to be insignificant at first, as he originally tried to go back into the game and play through it. Further analysis proved it was severe enough to land him a spot on the injured reserve. Now without their star defensive tackle, the Steelers are leaning on Isaiahh Loudermilk and Armon Watts to step up, with Larry Ogunjobi still starting at defensive end. Pittsburgh is in the market for a new defensive lineman, and some names stand out from the crowd. 

J.J. Watt - (We can dream, right?)

Watt was one of the best players in recent history, consistently being ranked the best defender during the 2010s. Watt collected three Defensive Player of the Year Awards along with five Pro Bowls and the prestigious Walter Peyton Man of the Year Award. Watt dominated whenever he was on the field, but he retired after his contract expired with the Arizona Cardinals in 2022. Watt has stated before that he regretted never being able to play NFL football with his brothers, Derek Watt and T.J. Watt. The Steelers might turn to the veteran to fill the void of another veteran's absence if he's open.

J.J. could become the perfect fit for the Steelers, if they can convince him to come out of retirement. It's not uncommon that players unretire and go on one last ride, and J.J. has even more reason to come to Pittsburgh with his brother at linebacker in the Steel City. It might take some convincing, but the Steelers have family ties on their side. 

Matt Ioannidis, DT, Free Agent

Ioannidis is a talented, young defensive lineman currently floating in free agency. He's collected 25.5 sacks and three forced fumbles over his six-year career, mostly with the Washington Commanders. In 2019, he started 15 games and totaled 8.5 sacks and 64 combined tackles. Ioannidis hasn't been able to find a solid home on a team, but has some veteran-like qualities along with being a well-rounded pass rusher. Ioannidis could find a reliable home in Pittsburgh and create an immediate impact. 

Akiem Hicks, DE, Free Agent

Standing at 6'5", 324 pounds, Hicks could be the big body Pittsburgh is looking for. Hicks has had a storied career, most notably with the Chicago Bears. Hicks has tallied 41.5 sacks and 409 combined tackles during his 12 years in the NFL. He was most recently on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but he suffered a foot injury and missed almost half the season. He wasn't picked back up by the Buccaneers, so a short deal with the Steelers might be favorable for the big man. 

What Would Be The Steelers' Best Move?

The Steelers obviously need some help on the defensive line. There are multiple favorable names both in trades and in free agency, but Pittsburgh needs to make a move if they want to get the top names on the team. Heyward has been rumored to be out for up to eight weeks, aiming for a November return. Since the Steelers struggled so much against the run with Heyward on the line, his absence could be detrimental. The pressure is on for Pittsburgh to get their replacement defensive lineman, so we might see a Steelers transaction soon.