Three moves Steelers could make with remaining cap space

The Steelers are in an unusual situation so late into the offseason. According to Over The Cap , they have almost $16 million in cap space.

Pittsburgh could use its remaining cap space in several ways ahead of the 2024 season, but these three moves would make the most sense.

Trade and pay for a No. 2 wide receiver

Since trading Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers in March, the Steelers have been without a legitimate No. 2 wide receiver to play opposite George Pickens.

There are still a couple of interesting options on the open market, but all come at a risk, and none are arguably better than what Pittsburgh currently has in Van Jefferson, Quez Watkins and third-round rookie Roman Wilson.

That's why trading for a disgruntled playmaker such as 49ers' Brandon Aiyuk or Broncos' Courtland Sutton makes a ton of sense.

Both players want long-term security, and it seems neither of their current teams will give it to them.

The biggest factor will be how much the Steelers would have to give up, but money isn't the question.

Extend tight end Pat Freiermuth

Freiermuth, a second-round pick (No. 55 overall) in 2021, is entering the final year of his rookie deal.

He is coming off an underwhelming season in which he registered just 32 receptions for 308 yards and two touchdowns in 12 games. A nagging hamstring injury contributed to his decreased production.

Otherwise, the 25-year-old has had a good start to his NFL career, amassing 123 catches for 1,229 yards and nine touchdowns in his first two seasons.

Pittsburgh may let him play out his contract, but his price tag could significantly rise if he returns to his 2021-22 form. That's why it could be smart to give Freiermuth some up-front money and the team an easy out later, if necessary.

Extend defensive tackle Cameron Heyward

Heyward is heading into the final year of his current contract and has been adamant about an extension.

The six-time Pro Bowler sat out the first two weeks of OTAs, hoping to force the Steelers' hand, but neither side has budged.

Heyward is coming off a down year in which he registered just 33 tackles and two sacks in 11 games, but he battled a lingering groin injury all season.

The 35-year-old may not be the same player he used to be, but he has been a leader and one of the best players at his position throughout his 13-year NFL career. Taking care of the longtime team captain and 2023 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year wouldn't be so bad.