Hot Takes, Predictions for Steelers' Most Impactful Free-Agent Signings
The Pittsburgh Steelers didn't make any huge free-agent signings this offseason. Instead, they added a host of complementary players to their budding young core, trying to fill some of the holes across their roster.
It's a strategy that could work out well for the Steelers, assuming their younger players continue to take steps forward during the 2023 season. Pittsburgh will be trying to get back to the playoffs after going 9-8 and finishing third in the AFC North.
Some of the free agents brought in by the team have the potential to greatly outperform their contracts. If that happens, then they could be in a strong position to contend for a postseason berth throughout the upcoming year.
Here are some hot takes and predictions for several of Pittsburgh's most notable free-agent acquisitions.
Isaac Seumalo, OG
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Last year, Isaac Seumalo started all 17 games for the Philadelphia Eagles. It was only the second time in his seven-year NFL career (all of which had been spent in Philadelphia) that he didn't miss a game, along with 2019, when he made 16 starts.
Now, the 29-year-old could bring some consistency to the interior of the Steelers' offensive line. He signed a three-year, $24 million deal this offseason, and he should be the starting left guard when the 2023 season begins.
There's never been any question about the Oregon State product's talent, but he's been impacted by injuries in the past and was limited to only three games during the 2021 season.
However, Seumalo showed last year he's capable of staying on the field, even at this stage in his career. So, don't be surprised if he does the same thing for the Steelers this season.
Prediction: Seumalo again starts all 17 games
Cole Holcomb, LB
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Cole Holcomb has the potential to be a tackling machine. He showed that during the 2021 season, when he recorded a career-high 142 tackles over 16 games. That was often how well he played during his four-year tenure with the Washington Commanders.
However, the North Carolina product was limited to seven games last year because of a foot injury. Otherwise, he was well on his way to a third season with more than 100 tackles, because he already had 69 at that point.
Holcomb is still only 26, though, so the Steelers may have gotten a steal when they signed him to a three-year, $18 million contract. He could provide tremendous value if he can stay on the field.
He played 43 games over his first three seasons, so he should bounce back and prove last year wasn't a sign of injury troubles to come. And if he's on the field a lot (which he should be), he should have no problem again racking up a large number of tackles.
Prediction: Holcomb finishes with more than 100 tackles
Patrick Peterson, CB
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Patrick Peterson is an eight-time Pro Bowler and a three-time All-Pro selection, but he hasn't earned either of those recognitions since 2018. He's now a 32-year-old with 12 years of NFL experience whose best years are likely behind him.
That doesn't mean he can't still be a productive player, though. He showed that over the past two seasons while playing for the Minnesota Vikings, which followed 10 years with the Arizona Cardinals to begin his NFL career.
In fact, the LSU product had five interceptions in 2022, his second-most in any season. He's also a reliable presence in a team's secondary, considering he started all 17 games for the Vikings last year.
Peterson should have a starting role with the Steelers, which signed him to a two-year, $14 million deal. And while he may not record quite as many picks as last year, he may come close to that total.
Prediction: Peterson notches four interceptions in 17 games
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