The Steelers Are Hoping That Their Veteran Players Can Step Up, In 2019.

My series covering every NFL team continues with this article taking a look at the Pittsburgh Steelers. I will be identifying players that I would consider adding ahead of the 2019 season. Also included will be my recommendations on what it might take to acquire these players.

Stephon Tuitt, Defensive End:

Stephon Tuitt, 25, is going into his sixth season with the Steelers, along their defensive line. He ended last season with 27 solo tackles, seven tackles for loss, 20 quarterback hits, and five and a half sacks. Tuitt had a very solid season, but the one knock on him is in inability to start all 16 games. I believe this is the year that Tuitt starts all 16 games, thus increasing his overall production and solidifying the front line of the Pittsburgh defense.

Fantasy Recommendation:

Tuitt is someone who won’t be cheap to acquire, but if there ever is a time to acquire him, now is the time. I’d give up a mid round pick or a late early round pick to acquire him. I project Tuitt to have defensive end one/two production.

Honorable Mention: Isaiah Buggs, Defensive End.

Mark Barron, Linebacker:

Mark Barron, 29, signed a two-year $12 million contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers, after being released by the L.A. Rams, this off season. He ended last season with 43 solo tackles, three tackles for loss, one quarterback hit, and one sack. With the release of, last seasons starter, Jon Bostic, this off season, Mark Barron now has a clear path to playing time. Even with his play dropping off some, from the year prior, I still believe that he has enough left in the tank to turn it around, going into this season. He makes a nice buy low target.

Fantasy Recommendation:

He like his teammate, Tuitt, should be owned, but Barron’s down season, should help lower his overall value. I’d give up a mid round pick for Barron. I see him with linebacker three production, for 2019.

Honorable Mention: Bud Dupree, Linebacker.

Joe Haden, Cornerback:

Joe Haden, 30, is going into his third season in Pittsburgh. He has been a nice addition since his release from Cleveland, earning the AFC Defensive Player of the Week, for week 15, last season. Haden ended 2018 with 51 solo tackles, two tackles for loss, and 12 pass deflections. He did this over 15 games started/played, his most since 2014, with Cleveland. I’m looking for Haden to continue his strong play into 2019. He makes a great buy low target, as I feel most people kind of forgot about him.

Fantasy Recommendation:

He might be owned, but if not, it shouldn’t cost you more than a mid round pick. I see Haden with cornerback two production, for this season.

Honorable Mention: Mike Hilton, Cornerback.

Conclusion

With the Steelers offense going through some changes, it will be important for their defense, mainly their veterans, to step up.  I think these players are capable of doing just that. I expect this defense to be better than last season. Ranking these buy-lows in order of priority, it would be, Stephon Tuitt, Mark Barron, Joe Haden Hopefully, you find these recommendations helpful in your quest to build that championship roster for 2019. Please keep an eye out for the Seattle Seahawks.

Please note that when I say linebacker four or safety four potential, that is basing it off of a 10 team dynasty league.

Follow me on Twitter @MorganMcLane and follow the show @IDPGuys Defense does win Championships!