Despite the uncertainty surrounding Cameron Heyward’s extension, it seems the Steelers have not completely ruled out a fourth contract with their dependable defensive lineman. However, it appears they are opting not to pursue another agreement with one of their interior O-line starters for the 2024 season.
Earlier this offseason, there were discussions about a James Daniels extension, but the Pittsburgh starter shut down these rumors by confirming that the team does not plan to extend his contract before the season. Since the Steelers do not typically do in-season extensions, Daniels will play out his current contract year.
Daniels will have the opportunity to explore free agency once again in 2025. Despite entering his seventh NFL season, he will only be 27 years old when the market opens next year. The confirmation from the Steelers that they want him to fulfill his current three-year, $26.5MM deal raises the stakes for the Iowa product.
The Steelers parted ways with veteran O-linemen Chukwuma Okorafor and Mason Cole in February, and they also traded Kevin Dotson to the Rams. Dotson secured a three-year, $48MM deal with the Rams, setting a precedent for Daniels, whose potential departure in 2025 could leave the Steelers vulnerable at guard.
Having selected Broderick Jones in 2023, the Steelers have invested in tackles in back-to-back years. With Zach Frazier likely to take over at center, the team appears set at those spots. The signing of Isaac Seumalo to a three-year, $24MM deal in 2023, alongside Daniels being four years younger, suggests Daniels may command a higher price on his third contract.
James Daniels was ranked 33rd among guards by Pro Football Focus last season and 24th in his Steelers debut. ESPN’s pass block win rate metric placed him ninth among guards in 2022. With several guards signing lucrative deals this offseason, Daniels has a great opportunity ahead. The Steelers’ selection of Mason McCormick in the fourth round this year raises questions about their plans for the future, especially with Daniels heading towards free agency in 2025.
It seems the Steelers are willing to let Daniels play out his contract year and potentially increase his value in anticipation of free agency. While the team has a cost-effective quarterback situation for 2024, potential interest in extending Russell Wilson or Justin Fields could complicate matters next year. With significant contracts already in place for defenders, the Steelers will need to carefully consider their financial strategy moving forward.
