Former Steelers OL James Daniels likely knew going into the 2024 season that he was heading elsewhere the following offseason. He told reporters the Steelers informed him they would not extend his contract, and their draft moves suggested intentions to move on.
That only made his Achilles tear even more painful, adding another layer of uncertainty to his future. If the Steelers would not bring him back, Daniels would have to convince someone else of his abilities. Going into his eighth season, he has an established resume, but he is still rehabbing. Having suffered the injury early in the year, he knows it could be worse, though.