Steelers’ 2025 NFL free agency targets following playoff defeat to Ravens
As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for the 2025 season, uncertainty surrounds both their starting quarterback and potentially their head coach. Despite these questions, the team is already eyeing potential free-agent targets following their playoff elimination at the hands of the Ravens.
Pittsburgh ended the regular season on a four-game losing streak and was eliminated from the playoffs with a lackluster 28-14 defeat to Baltimore. The team’s performance highlighted several areas in need of improvement, and addressing these through free agency could help fill some critical gaps.
Bengals WR Tee Higgins Among Top Targets
One of the Steelers’ primary targets is Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins. After a strong 2024 campaign, in which he posted 911 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns in just 12 games, Higgins could be a game-changer for Pittsburgh. While he played behind Ja’Marr Chase in Cincinnati, as the top option in 2025, Higgins could see even greater production.
However, securing Higgins won’t be easy. Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has voiced his desire to keep Higgins in Cincinnati, emphasizing the receiver’s impact on the field. Despite this, Higgins has not ruled out a move, hinting that 2024 might be his final season with the Bengals.
Other wide receivers the Steelers may target include Chris Godwin of the Buccaneers and Stefon Diggs of the Texans. However, both players are recovering from significant injuries and are getting older, which could complicate a potential move.
Lions DL Levi Onwuzurike Could Strengthen the Defense
The Steelers may also look to bolster their defensive line, and Detroit Lions defensive lineman Levi Onwuzurike is a potential addition. Onwuzurike made 10 starts in 2024, recording 1.5 sacks and 28 tackles. At 6-foot-3 and 290 pounds, he’s not the biggest defensive lineman, but his speed and agility make him effective against both the run and the pass. Lions head coach Dan Campbell praised Onwuzurike’s improved physique and readiness for the 2024 season, suggesting his best football is ahead of him.
In addition to Onwuzurike, Pittsburgh could consider other defensive line options, including Eagles defensive tackle Milton Williams and Cowboys defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa, both of whom had solid seasons in 2024.
Vikings QB Sam Darnold a Longshot Option
Quarterback remains a key question for the Steelers, and Vikings QB Sam Darnold is a potential, albeit unlikely, target. However, after Darnold’s struggles in the playoffs, the Steelers may be hesitant to invest in him. Additionally, with Justin Fields already on the roster, Pittsburgh might not see Darnold as a significant upgrade.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell also distanced himself from Darnold, acknowledging his struggles during critical moments of the season, which may influence Pittsburgh’s interest.
Bengals CB Mike Hilton Could Return to Pittsburgh
Another possible free-agent addition is former Steelers cornerback Mike Hilton, who has been a solid contributor for the Bengals since leaving Pittsburgh after the 2020 season. While the Steelers’ slot corner position has been a weak point in recent years, Hilton could provide the experience and stability they need.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has acknowledged the need for changes and improvements moving forward. While he’s not ready to sell optimism, he emphasized that the team is adapting and will continue to adjust their approach in search of greater success.
As the Steelers navigate the 2025 offseason, their free-agent acquisitions will be pivotal in shaping the future of the team.
