One of the lesser talked about, yet highly touted players in the 2024 free agent class is Ravens DT Justin Madubuike.
His name may not have the notoriety that pending free agents like Chris Jones and Kirk Cousins do, but his talents will be coveted across the league in a few weeks when free agency opens.
Well, one of the teams that know him best is Pittsburgh, who could use Madubuike as the next Cam Heyward in their scheme:
There is perhaps no player entering free agency who has earned more money than Madabuike. A former third-round pick, his play through the first three years of his career was that of a solid and productive lineman. Then in 2023 Madubuike went off, doubling his previous career high in pressures (64) while recording five more sacks than his previous career total (13).
His elevation into the tier of elite pass rusher along with a Pro Bowl nod and second- team All-Pro will ensure Madubuike signs one of the most lucrative deals in this year’s free agency, regardless of position. – A to Z Sports Free Agency
Franchise Tag Likelihood: High
Projected Contract: 4 yrs, $97M, $24.25M APY, $62.5M GTD
Year One Cap Hit: $13M
Now there’s an easy way for the Steelers to make Madubuike the next Cam Heyward, but it would never happen.
Heyward is heading into the final year of his deal and is due to make a hefty 16 million dollars, which would be free to use if Pittsburgh released him.
But not only is Heyward playing at too high of a level to do that, cutting one of the most beloved players in franchise history who’s likely to receive Hall of Fame votes and is fresh off winning the Walter Payton Man of the Year award will be a tough sell to your fanbase.
But there is a way for Pittsburgh to have the best of both worlds..
With some salary cap gymnastics and a new deal for Heyward that stretches his 2024 salary out or converts it to a signing bonus, the team would be able to manipulate the cap and bring Madubuike in as the next great interior defensive lineman in Pittsburgh.
The only question left to answer is if they are willing to do it.
