The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for the 2026 free agency period, and it's time to take a closer look at some potential defensive additions. With a defense in dire need of reinforcements, here are some key players the Steelers should consider signing:
DJ Reader (NT, Detroit Lions): Reader, who turns 32 this summer, is an experienced nose tackle. While he may be on the older side, his role is primarily to stop the run, not rush the passer. Reader's 240 A-gap snaps in 2025 were the fourth-most among NFL defensive linemen and the most of any pending free agent. He would be a cost-effective addition, providing a solid backup to Keeanu Benton and ensuring the team has a reliable nose tackle.
Tim Settle (NT-DE, Houston Texans): Settle, 29, has primarily been a backup throughout his career but found his way into the starting lineup in the last two seasons. In 2025, he recorded one sack before a foot injury ended his season. Settle's versatility allows him to play nose tackle behind Benton and potentially push him if needed. His cost is slightly higher than Reader, but he offers more positional flexibility.
See AlsoBengals Free Agency Day 1: Winners, Losers, and New Super Bowl OddsPittsburgh Steelers GM Omar Khan's 2026 NFL Combine Media Tour: Key TakeawaysHowie Roseman's Trade Philosophy: Why He'll Always Listen to Offers for Eagles PlayersBreaking News: Bears Center Drew Dalman Retires at 27 | NFL Free Agency UpdateK.J. Britt (ILB, Miami Dolphins): Britt, 27, is an inside linebacker who started just one game in 2025 but played over 600 defensive snaps with Tampa Bay in 2024. He is a capable run defender and has special teams experience, logging nearly 1,300 career special teams snaps. If Malik Harrison is released, Britt could become the team's No. 3 inside linebacker, providing depth and run-stopping ability.
Amik Robertson (CB, Detroit Lions): Robertson, 27, is a small but effective cornerback. He has managed to stick on the outside for most of his career and has a knack for forcing fumbles, with six since 2023. His interception production is modest, but his ability to stick to receivers and create turnovers is valuable. Robertson's size and athleticism make him a solid option for the Steelers' cornerback position.
Eric Stokes (CB, Las Vegas Raiders): Stokes, 27, had a career resurgence under DC Patrick Graham, who is now with the Steelers. He improved his play despite the Raiders' struggles and earned high marks from Pro Football Focus. Stokes has size, athleticism, and a 4.28 40-yard dash time from his Georgia days. While he missed tackles in 2025, his overall defensive grades and coverage skills make him a smart, cost-effective signing.
Nahshon Wright (CB, Chicago Bears): Wright, 27, had an excellent 2025 season, earning a Pro Bowl selection. His size, length, and ability to make plays in coverage make him an intriguing option. Pairing him with Joey Porter Jr. could create a formidable cornerback duo to defend top receivers.
Montaric Brown (CB, Jacksonville Jaguars): Brown, 27, has quietly played well for the Jaguars over the past two years. He finished the 2025 season with career-best pass deflection and interception totals. Brown's size, athleticism, and defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile's influence make him a solid free agent option.
Alontae Taylor (CB, New Orleans Saints): Taylor, a versatile corner, has experience playing both inside and outside. He is a do-it-all player who can contribute in coverage, against the run, and on special teams. Taylor's age and physicality make him a valuable addition to the Steelers' defensive backfield.
In terms of special teams, the Steelers should consider signing a veteran punter to upgrade their coverage unit. Options like Tommy Townsend or Jake Bailey, both with cold-weather experience, could be ideal upgrades over Corliss Waitman.
The Steelers' free agency strategy should focus on addressing their defensive needs while also considering cost-effective options that can provide immediate impact and long-term value.
