The Pittsburgh Steelers finalize talks with James Daniels.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have clarified that one of their starting players won’t be receiving a contract extension before the upcoming season kicks off. James Daniels, who plays as the starting right guard, won’t be securing a new deal in 2024. Despite hopes that both parties could reach an agreement this offseason, Daniels confirmed the team’s decision in an interview with Steelers Now reporter Alan Saunders.

Daniels stated, “I was told nothing’s going to happen, so I don’t have to worry about that,” indicating that he can now focus solely on his penfl-breaking-steelers-end-negotiation-with-james-danielsrformance on the field.

Interpreting the decision leads to two possibilities. One is that the Steelers may be confident they won’t require Daniels beyond 2024, considering the existing contracts of other key players like left guard Isaac Seumalo and Spencer Anderson, along with the addition of Mason McCormick in the recent draft.

Alternatively, a more pragmatic view suggests that the Steelers prefer to assess the situation as the season progresses, which aligns with their approach to several other impending contract renewals. Notable veterans such as Cam Heyward, Pat Freiermuth, Najee Harris, Russell Wilson, and Justin Fields all find themselves in similar contract situations, with no extensions currently in sight.

While circumstances could evolve in the coming months, the decision to postpone negotiations on expiring contracts until after the season appears consistent with the Steelers’ offseason strategy. Despite this, it doesn’t necessarily rule out Daniels’ return after the season. However, it does imply that the Steelers don’t consider him the sole linchpin of their offensive line, especially with the arrivals of Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu.