Cap Crunch and Extension Dilemmas
Key Questions
Why do the Steelers have the NFL's lowest cap space?
The Steelers have $3.124M in cap space after completing extensions for Herbig and Washington, with a projected $5.5M available in 2027. This tight situation is expected to require restructures involving players like Watt, Ramsey, and Metcalf.
What is delaying extensions for Joey Porter Jr. and Keeanu Benton?
Porter's talks have stalled over guaranteed money, while Benton's declining run defense raises concerns about a $23M AAV deal. The franchise tag at $23.69M is viewed as a potential middle-ground option amid the limited cap window.
How do trade values impact the Steelers' contract decisions?
ESPN's trade value list shows dips for Watt and Metcalf but rising value for Benton and Herbig. Barnwell has identified six Steelers players, including Porter and Benton, as having first-round trade value amid extension pressures.
Steelers have NFL's lowest cap space ($3.124M) after Herbig/Washington extensions, with 2027 projected at $5.5M. Watt's record $41M AAV extension locks him in, but Porter Jr. and Benton extensions face tight window. Restructures of Watt, Ramsey, Metcalf likely needed. Porter's contract talks stalled on guaranteed money; Benton's declining run defense makes $23M AAV risky. Franchise tag ($23.69M) emerges as middle ground. ESPN trade value list shows Watt and Metcalf's value dipped, while Benton and Herbig are rising assets. Barnwell lists six Steelers (including Porter, Benton) as first-round trade value.