What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The Pittsburgh Steelers are actively seeking to bolster their offensive line by showing interest in free-agent guard Dalton Risner. According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, Risner is contemplating a visit to Pittsburgh after having worked out with the Cincinnati Bengals and planning a meeting with the Seattle Seahawks. Risner, originally a second-round pick by the Denver Broncos in 2019, has accumulated 81 career starts over six seasons. Despite being limited to 10 games in 2024, he demonstrated strong pass protection skills, not allowing any sacks and conceding only 16 pressures in 537 snaps. His performance earned him a PFF pass-blocking grade of 76.2. The Steelers, with Mason McCormick and Isaac Seumalo as their current starting guards, view Risner as a valuable depth addition, especially given Seumalo's injury history and McCormick's relative inexperience.
Why It's Important?
The potential acquisition of Dalton Risner by the Pittsburgh Steelers is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it addresses the team's need for reliable depth on the offensive line, which is crucial for maintaining quarterback protection and enhancing the running game. Risner's proven track record in pass protection could provide stability, especially if current starters face injuries or performance issues. Additionally, the competition from teams like the Bengals and Seahawks highlights the demand for Risner's skills, suggesting that his addition could be a strategic move to prevent rivals from strengthening their own rosters. For the Steelers, securing Risner could be a key factor in their pursuit of a successful season, as offensive line performance is often a determinant of overall team success.
What's Next?
If Dalton Risner decides to visit Pittsburgh, the Steelers will need to present a compelling case to secure his services, especially given the interest from other teams. The Steelers may need to offer competitive terms or highlight the benefits of joining their roster, such as the potential for playoff contention and a supportive team environment. Should Risner join the Steelers, the team will likely focus on integrating him into their offensive line strategy, ensuring he complements existing players and enhances overall line performance. The outcome of Risner's decision could influence the Steelers' approach to future roster adjustments and their strategy in upcoming games.
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