Steelers' DT Dilemma: Exploring Trade Up Options Amidst Maxx Crosby Conundrum & T.J. Watt Contract

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been one of the most dominant defensive teams in the National Football League (NFL) over the past decade, and their success can be attributed to their talented defensive line. However, with the upcoming NFL Draft and the upcoming season, the Steelers are facing a critical decision: whether to trade up for a top defensive tackle (DT) or stick with their current pass rushers. The Maxx Crosby conundrum and T.J. Watt contract have made this decision even more complicated.

The Steelers' pass rush has been a significant factor in their success, with T.J. Watt and Bud Dupree forming one of the most formidable outside linebacking duos in the league. However, their outside linebackers are in a contract dispute, making it uncertain whether they will be able to sign a long-term deal. The Steelers are also without their right tackle, who is out with an injury, further complicating their pass rush. With the impending departure of T.J. Watt, the Steelers are left to consider the options at defensive tackle.

There are currently three top defensive tackles available in the 2023 NFL Draft: Noah Sewell, Gervon Baker, and Keion White. However, the Steelers are also in negotiations with Green Bay Packers' defensive tackle, Maxx Crosby, who has expressed a desire to return to the team. The Steelers have a talented young pass rusher, Jaylen Waddle, but they are still missing a dominant force at defensive tackle.

Assessing the Steelers' Options

The Steelers have several options available to them in the 2023 NFL Draft. Here are a few of the most notable:

• Noah Sewell: The Oregon product is considered one of the top defensive tackles in the draft. He has impressive size, speed, and agility, making him a perfect fit for the Steelers' 3-4 defense.
• Gervon Baker: The Alabama product is known for his athleticism and quickness off the edge. He would be a great fit for the Steelers' pass rush, but his limited experience at nose tackle is a concern.
• Keion White: The Western Kentucky product is a highly decorated defensive tackle who has the size and strength to occupy multiple blockers.

However, the Steelers also have the option to trade up for one of the top defensive tackles in the draft. This would likely require a significant sacrifice, possibly including multiple draft picks and future considerations.

The Maxx Crosby Conundrum

Maxx Crosby is one of the top defensive tackles in the draft, and he has expressed a desire to return to the Green Bay Packers. However, the Steelers have been negotiating with him, and it's unclear whether he will ultimately decide to stay with the team. If Crosby does decide to leave, the Steelers will need to find another top defensive tackle to anchor their line.

Crosby's skills and experience would be a significant upgrade to the Steelers' defensive line, but there are several factors to consider when evaluating his potential. Here are a few of the most notable:

• Experience: Crosby has a limited amount of experience at the NFL level, but he has shown impressive skills in his time with the Packers.
• Size: Crosby is a large defensive tackle, measuring 6'5" and weighing 305 pounds.
• Strength: Crosby has impressive strength and power, which would allow him to occupy multiple blockers.

T.J. Watt Contract Negotiations

The Steelers are also in contract negotiations with outside linebacker, T.J. Watt. Watt has been one of the most dominant pass rushers in the league, but his current contract is set to expire after the upcoming season. The Steelers are currently discussing a potential extension with Watt, but the talks are uncertain.

If the Steelers are unable to come to an agreement with Watt, they may need to consider alternative options at outside linebacker. Here are a few of the most notable:

• Jaylen Waddle: The Steelers have a talented young pass rusher in Jaylen Waddle, but he is still developing his skills.
• Chris Worley: The Steelers signed Chris Worley in free agency last season, and he has shown impressive skills as a linebacker.
• Demondre Carreker: The Steelers drafted Demondre Carreker in the 2020 NFL Draft, but he has been limited by injuries.

Implications for the Steelers' Lineup

The Steelers' defensive line is a critical component of their overall defense. If the team is unable to secure a top defensive tackle, they may need to adjust their lineup to compensate. Here are a few of the most notable implications:

• More emphasis on pass rush: The Steelers may need to shift more emphasis to their pass rush, relying on their outside linebackers to generate pressure on the quarterback.
• More use of linebackers: The Steelers may need to use their linebackers more in the run game, relying on their quickness and agility to stop the ball carrier.
• More emphasis on defensive backs: The Steelers may need to shift more emphasis to their defensive backs, relying on their speed and agility to cover the opposing team's receivers.

Conclusion

The Steelers' defensive line is a critical component of their overall defense, and they are facing a critical decision: whether to trade up for a top defensive tackle or stick with their current pass rushers. The Maxx Crosby conundrum and T.J. Watt contract have made this decision even more complicated. Ultimately, the Steelers will need to weigh their options carefully and make a decision that best suits their team's needs.