The Pittsburgh Steelers have had a thrilling offseason. Typically, they're not super aggressive during this time, but General Manager Omar Khan took a unique approach this year. The team welcomed two new quarterbacks, Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, while trading away Diontae Johnson and Kenny Pickett. Additionally, they made a significant free agency move by signing star linebacker, Patrick Queen.
These moves have given fans a real reason to be excited. Some pundits believe the Steelers are not done and might still be looking to bring in a wide receiver to fill the void left by the Johnson trade. With veteran captain Cam Heyward seeking a new deal before the season starts, there is speculation about further strengthening the defensive line.
Although they added veteran Dean Lowry this offseason, Pro Football Network suggests that the Steelers should consider adding another experienced defensive lineman.
"Cornerback is a need, but so is interior help for T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. With Lawrence Guy having a history of collapsing pockets inside, he could be welcomed here greatly."
The idea of Pittsburgh signing Lawrence Guy is quite intriguing. Currently a free agent, Guy is entering the twilight stages of his career at 34 years old, which is quite similar in age to Pittsburgh's own defensive stalwart, Heyward. Over the years, Guy has enjoyed a long and decorated NFL career, which includes winning a Super Bowl with the New England Patriots. He has been a steady presence on the Patriots' defensive line for the last seven seasons, showcasing his experience and reliability.
In the 2023 season, Guy started 12 games for the Patriots, recording 38 combined tackles across 17 games played. While he may not be the solid defensive lineman he once was, his wealth of NFL experience and his status as a former Super Bowl champion could add valuable depth and stability to Pittsburgh’s defensive roster. Moreover, his presence could serve as a crucial safety net should the team find itself without Heyward in 2024 due to his pending contract request.
Heyward has spent his entire career in Pittsburgh and has been a dominant force on their defensive front. Despite this, there is some uncertainty regarding his future with the team, as he has expressed dissatisfaction with the progress of negotiations for a new contract. Heyward has been open about his desire to continue playing, ideally for around three more seasons, and would prefer to remain with Pittsburgh. However, the business side of the NFL often forces both organizations and players to make difficult and sometimes unexpected decisions.
Steelers Could Have A Real Reason To Sign Lawrence Guy
Given these factors, adding Guy to the roster could be a prudent move for Pittsburgh. Guy would likely come at a low cost, possibly on a veteran minimum deal, which would make him an economical option for bolstering the defensive line. His veteran experience and knowledge of the game could also provide mentorship to younger players, contributing to the overall strength and cohesion of the defensive unit.
While Guy may not be a headline-grabbing acquisition, his value lies in his experience and ability to provide reliable depth. Steelers fans are undoubtedly eager to see if Pittsburgh has any more strategic moves planned before the 2024 season kicks off. The addition of a seasoned player like Guy could prove to be a smart, strategic decision that enhances the team's resilience and readiness for the challenges ahead. It will be interesting to see if Pittsburgh has any real interest in Guy or anyone else on the market still.
