A proven commodity just hit the Steelers market
Talk about an “enormous” upgrade.
The Steelers approach the offseason with three main areas of concern. Those include left tackle, middle linebacker, and boundary corner.
The most substantial need (both physically and figuratively) comes at left tackle.
Dan Moore has performed above expectations as a fourth-round pick, but he is the perfect "sixth man" or swing tackle.
So with the draft and free agency fast approaching, the Steelers have to consider all options when it comes to protecting Kenny Pickett's blind side.
The latest edition to the free agent market may be able to do just that.
The six-foot-six, 340-pounder, is being released as a "cap causality", saving the Buccaneers over $15 million in cash and nearly $10 million against the cap.
So for a team at the bottom of the league in cap space, and with major financial ramifications on the horizon, it was a matter of time before Smith was let go.
To be fair, Tampa went all in around Tom Brady. They signed a litany of free agents, extended their homegrown talent, and constructed a championship roster.
Then, they executed, winning the Super Bowl in 2020. In the NFL that's the ultimate goal, and good on the Bucs for doing it.
But even through all the celebration and boat parades, the bill was going to come due and the due date is here.
From Smith's perspective, he will have to answer some questions regarding effort.
His 2022 campaign was sub-par given his quality career to this point.
An eight-year veteran, Smith played started 15 or more games in the first seven years of his career. An impressive stint of durability.
Some may be concerned that his latest display is a look into the future, but that's not a fair assessment of the context in Tampa Bay.
Turmoil surrounded the franchise with problems both on and off the field, coaches in over their heads, and a consistent cloud of rumors surrounding quarterback Tom Brady.
Now that's no excuse, and no player should "throw in the towel" but Smith is only 29 years old, and perhaps was a little complacent after his career success in the Bay.
He will demand a market, if for no other reason than durable left tackles are hard to find and ones that are in the prime of their career might as well be unicorns.
With Orlando Brown Jr. forecasted to hit the market, and an exceptional group of tackles atop the draft, it's all about money with Smith.
If he's looking for a figure that imitates his $19.5 APY then Pittsburgh should tell him to keep walking.
But with questions about his body of work in the latter part of last year, Smith may realize that a one-to-two year prove it deal is his best option.
If that's the case, Pittsburgh should be all ears, continuing to draft and develop later-round talent, while having a bookend tackle to propel the present.
