PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Quietly the most consistent of the offensive lineman last year, is another year or longer of Trai Turner a good investment for the Steelers?
According to Pro Football Focus, Turner graded as the 30th best guard in all of football, 15th best in pass block, 35th in run block. He was 20 spots higher than the Steelers other starting guard Kevin Dotson. It was also the highest grade Turner has received since 2017, so it really could have been injuries that set him back. Relatively healthy, Turner is still at least an average NFL starter.
The former LSU offensive lineman also for the first time was the old man in the room. Turner became a leader in a group of rookies and inexperienced players.
"I embraced it," Turner said of his leadership position. "It was different. It was my first time being in a role like that. Embraced it."
He said he not only talked ball, but off-field stuff. Turner tried to teach players about life lessons and how to learn from their mistakes and mistakes others made.
What is the value of that to a team? Is that something Turner wants to continue to provide?
"A lot of uncertainty, it's like looking into the fog you can't really see what is in front of you," Turner said of entering free agency. "Need to gather my thoughts."
WHY SIGN HIM?
· While it seems he's much older, Turner is still only 28 and could have several productive seasons ahead of him
· A young offensive line could still use his guidance as they seemed to respect Turner.
· He's affordable and allows you to plug in a starter while continuing to shop
WHY NOT?
· If you decide last year was an anomaly in his production rising for the first time in four seasons
· You go after a higher-quality free agent
· Set on filling that position in the draft or with a move of Kendrick Green to guard
COST
The Steelers paid only $3 million for Turner on a one-year flier last season. PFF estimates he could get a deal in the range of three-years, $18 million.
High-end-Washington's Brandon Scherff-PFF 3-years, $50 million
Remaining with the Steelers
"I would love to be back," Turner said. "I would love to be a part of this organization. It's been great since I've been here. Enjoyed Coach T, enjoyed playing with Ben. It's a first-class organization all around."
