Steelers: 3 players new GM should sign with newfound cap space

With an inevitable rebuild here, look for Terron Armstead to leave New Orleans

It was a great run for the New Orleans Saints, but it is over. No team is in a worse spot up against the salary cap than them. Not only did Drew Brees retire two years ago, but Sean Payton exited stage left only a few weeks ago. The Saints made a bland hire by promoting Dennis Allen from within. Not only that, but the team’s best player Alvin Kamara has some massive legal issues.

All the while, three-time Pro Bowl left tackle Terron Armstead could be leaving elsewhere in free agency. Though the Steelers are just as unsettled at quarterback as the Saints are, a blindside protector of Armstead’s caliber makes any front-five’s situation a better one upon his arrival. He will only be 31 years old next season, meaning he will have plenty of time in his second NFL act.

Assuming the Steelers draft someone like Pitt’s Kenny Pickett, Liberty’s Malik Willis, UNC’s Sam Howell or Ole Miss’ Matt Corral, having a high-end established veteran like Armstead joining the team will be keen in the young quarterback’s development. The first-year quarterback does not have to be elite. If he can be what Mac Jones was this past year, then that could work out well.

Even if Armstead wants to come back to the Saints, they simply cannot afford him right now.