Max Scharping

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Steelers secured solid depth at a bargain price, landing Max Scharping on a one-year, $1.2M deal that earns a B- CVI and represents excellent value for a proven backup guard. While Scharping profiles as a depth piece rather than a difference-maker, his $1.2M salary sits well below market rate for guards with his NFL experience and versatility to play multiple positions along the interior line. At 27, he's entering his prime years with enough tread left on the tires to contribute meaningfully when called upon, having started games for both Houston and Cincinnati over the past few seasons. The one-year structure gives Pittsburgh maximum flexibility while providing Scharping a chance to rebuild his market value in a system that has historically maximized offensive line talent. This is exactly the type of low-risk, high-reward depth signing that contending teams need to make — acquiring capable veterans at below-market rates to ensure they don't fall off a cliff when injuries inevitably strike the starting lineup.

Performance Analysis

Max Scharping earns an F grade as a veteran guard who has been a below-average starter across multiple stops. Pittsburgh's offensive line needs better play than what Scharping has provided, and his tenure with the Steelers hasn't changed the narrative. His pass protection has been a persistent weakness, and the inability to sustain blocks in the run game limits the offense's effectiveness. Scharping is a replacement-level guard whose best days are likely behind him. The Steelers may be looking for an upgrade at the position sooner rather than later.