Projected Contracts for Steelers Free Agents: Mason Rudolph and Chandon Sullivan.
The Pittsburgh Steelers made a playoff return in 2023, but a premature exit prompts head coach Mike Tomlin and general manager Omar Khan to face challenging decisions. The foremost dilemma involves deciding the extent of commitment to quarterback Kenny Pickett, especially after two relatively underwhelming professional seasons. Additionally, the Steelers aim to enhance a roster that, while generally solid in 2023, fell short for a postseason push.
Before delving into the competitive free-agent market, the Steelers must navigate the uncertain futures of their impending free agents, all while contending with a limited projected cap space of $9.6 million.
Outlined below are assessments of three significant contributors set to become free agents on March 13, considering factors such as recent production, health, age, projections, and positional value. A comprehensive list of impending Steelers free agents can be found on Spotrac.
1. QB Mason Rudolph
The Steelers face competition for Kenny Pickett in training camp, making it apparent that their preference is to retain Mason Rudolph. General Manager Omar Khan expressed the team’s desire for Rudolph to be part of the ongoing process. Retaining Rudolph at the right price makes sense, given his solid performance down the stretch, demonstrating efficiency with a passer rating of 18.0 and a 3-0 record to close the regular season. However, Rudolph’s late-season success may attract interest from other teams, potentially affecting his contract negotiations. A reasonable projection is a two-year deal worth $8 million, with $4 million guaranteed.
2. CB Chandon Sullivan
Cornerback Chandon Sullivan played a crucial, albeit underrated, role with the Steelers in 2023. Despite limited playing time, Sullivan, utilized both as a slot defender and on special teams, displayed effectiveness with a low opposing passer rating of 59.4. While Pittsburgh may seek a starting corner, Sullivan offers valuable depth at a reasonable price. The deep free-agent cornerback class is likely to keep the market in check. A sensible projection is a one-year contract worth $2.5 million, with $1.1 million guaranteed.
3. Edge Markus Golden
The Steelers possess a formidable pass-rushing duo in T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, but adding a capable third edge-rusher remains beneficial. Markus Golden contributed with four sacks, six tackles for loss, and nine quarterback pressures in a rotational role. Despite his past high-end performance, this year’s deep free-agent pass-rusher class may impact Golden’s market value. Retaining him at a budget-friendly price is plausible, with a projected one-year deal worth $2.5 million, including $1.1 million guaranteed.
Contract and cap information is sourced from Spotrac, and advanced statistics are referenced from Pro Football Reference.
