The Pittsburgh Steelers have made significant investments in their offensive line. During the 2023 NFL Draft, they traded up to select tackle Broderick Jones, who took some time to earn his spot, but impressed as a rookie. Many anticipate that Jones will continue to grow and make an even greater impact in his second season.
In the 2024 NFL Draft, the Steelers doubled down on fortifying their front line. They picked tackle Troy Fautanu in the first round, center Zach Frazier in the second, and a sleeper guard, Mason McCormick, in the fourth. These promising newcomers offer a bright outlook for the team's future. Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin is expecting a lot from his young offensive line.
However, even though Fautanu is sidelined for two weeks due to a knee injury, he is expected to start at right tackle. This leaves Jones and Dan Moore Jr. vying for the left tackle position. Given Jones' impressive rookie season, it's hard to imagine him not securing a starting role, leading to speculation that the Steelers might be considering moving on from Moore, who underperformed in 2023.
Steelers insider Mark Kaboly recently addressed these sentiments regarding Moore on The Pat McAfee Show, arguing that it would be a mistake for the Steelers to part ways with him at this juncture. Kaboly even suggested that it would be insane for Pittsburgh to get rid of him now.
"I don’t think they’ll trade him… You would be crazy to get rid of somebody like Dan Moore," Kaboly said. "I mean this is a guy that has 50 starts in his career over three or four years. I mean, to be able to have a swing tackle in this league, to be able to have that type of background, that type of experience -- it’s absolutely crazy."
The Steelers selected Moore in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Over his first three seasons with Pittsburgh, Moore has been a somewhat reliable starter, appearing in 49 games. While he has been a consistent presence in the lineup, his role may change in 2024.
With Jones and Fautanu expected to secure the starting tackle positions, Moore might find himself as the primary backup, unless an unexpected situation arises or Jones fails to solidify his spot. Kaboly elaborated on why he believes the Steelers should retain Moore, emphasizing his value to the team.
"He doesn’t cost that much. He’s staying around because they might need him because beyond Dan Moore, you don’t really have much at tackle."
Moore received a disappointing Pro Football Focus grade of 51.8 for his performance in the 2023 season. He struggled both as a pass blocker and a run blocker, allowing eight sacks over the year. Despite these issues, Kaboly believes Moore’s value as a backup and his current contract make him worth keeping around.
Steelers' Dan Moore Jr. Will Be A Free Agent After 2024
Moore is still on his rookie deal, which is worth $4.17 million over four years, and will become an unrestricted free agent after the 2024 season. His performance this season will be crucial in determining his future with the Steelers.
If he performs well and seizes his opportunity, Pittsburgh might consider re-signing him at the right price. Conversely, Moore will also be playing to showcase his skills for potential suitors in free agency. It will be interesting to see how the Steelers handle Moore's situation after the 2024 season.
