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Former Pittsburgh Steelers offensive guard James Daniels became a free agent on Monday.
If the Pittsburgh Steelers want to bring back veteran guard James Daniels, they will have the opportunity to do so this offseason.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported Monday the Miami Dolphins released Daniels ahead of 2026 free agency. His release came just a year after the Dolphins signed him to a three-year, $24 million contract.
The move is a cap saving one. But it appears most of the money saved with Daniels’ release for the Dolphins will be in 2027.
Daniels played for the Steelers from 2022-24. He started all 36 games in which he played.
In his lone season with the Dolphins, Daniels made one appearance. He sustained a season-ending pectoral injury during Week 1.
During his final season with the Steelers, Daniels suffered an Achilles injury in Week 4.
The eight-year veteran guard, who has earned about $41.79 million in his NFL career, will be a free agent to sign with any team this offseason.
Could the Steelers Try a James Daniels Reunion at Guard?
2024 fourth-round pick Mason McCormick replaced Daniels at right guard after his injury. McCormick then started for the Steelers at the same position during 2025.
McCormick is still on his rookie contract, but the team could lose starting left guard Isaac Seumalo in 2026 NFL free agency.
The Steelers signed Seumalo the year after Daniels. The two were pretty effective while playing together in 2023.
McCormick is going to remain a starter for Pittsburgh in 2026. But if Seumalo is too pricey to re-sign, the Steelers could go the cheaper route and still have familiarity with Daniels.
Depending on the price, the Steelers could re-sign Seumalo and still pursue Daniels. In that situation, Daniels likely wouldn’t start, but he could be a great depth option as a sort of reclamation project.
Daniels played four seasons for the Chicago Bears to begin his career. He has started every game in which he’s played since Week 8 of his rookie 2018 season.
But he’s obviously played just five games over the past two years.
The veteran guard will turn 29 years old in September.
Why the Steelers Shouldn’t Re-Sign Daniels
Bringing back a familiar face is always tempting. But Daniels would be returning to almost an entirely new coaching staff in Pittsburgh. He has never played with quarterback Aaron Rodgers either.
His season-ending injuries the past two campaigns should be major cause for alarm as well.
Steelers Depot’s Alex Kozora is clearly not in favor of the team pursuing a reunion with Daniels.
“Hopefully the Steelers stay far away from both Tyreek Hill and James Daniels,” tweeted Kozora.
The Dolphins made several cuts Monday along with Daniels. The biggest, of which, was former All-Pro receiver Tyreek Hill.
Two years ago, Hill and D.K. Metcalf together would have scared everyone around the league. But like Daniels, Hill has dealt with injuries the past two years. Hill also turns 32 years old in March.
Regardless of the price, it’s very likely not worth the Steelers pursuing Hill. Daniels might be different, but he would have to be a very affordable option.
The Steelers would also be wise not to enter 2026 expecting Daniels to start all 17 games. The past two years, he didn’t make it out of September healthy.
Dave Holcomb is a sports reporter covering the NFL and MLB for Heavy.com, with a focus on the Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles and Detroit Lions. Originally from Pittsburgh, Holcomb has covered college and professional sports for outlets including FanSided, Rotowire and Yardbarker. More about Dave Holcomb
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