PITTSBURGH -- Replacing Antonio Brown and Le'Veon Bell with equal talent might be a futile task. But that doesn't mean the Steelers can't move the ball among the NFL's best.

Here's the team's playmaking depth chart after the first wave of free agency.

WIDE RECEIVER: JuJu Smith-Schuster, James Washington, Donte Moncrief, Eli Rogers, Ryan Switzer.

The buzz: The Steelers will almost surely select a receiver in the draft, but signing Moncrief gives them much-needed outside help. Pittsburgh likes his ability to make contested catches, and Ben Roethlisberger will give him the chance to make them. The Steelers can continue to move Smith-Schuster inside and out, while Washington is more of a true outside guy. Rogers and Switzer are matchup options on the inside.

RUNNING BACK: James Conner, Jaylen Samuels, Trey Edmunds, Roosevelt Nix

The buzz: The Steelers felt good enough about Conner and Samuels to opt against placing the transition tag on Bell. The Steelers could rely on a more balanced run-pass attack after leading the NFL in passing attempts by 40 last year. Conner is eyeing a big third season as the workhorse. Samuels has great hands and could catch 50-60 passes next year. It wouldn't surprise if the Steelers signed a veteran tailback this offseason.

TIGHT END: Vance McDonald, Xavier Grimble

The buzz: The Steelers likely aren't done here after letting Jesse James sign a sizable deal in Detroit. The Steelers rely heavily on two-tight-end sets, and though Grimble will slide into the No. 2 role, they like to have three capable tight ends. This is a big time for Grimble, who's athletic and a stout blocker but hasn't put it all together. Expect an even bigger role for McDonald, who is coming off a 50-catch season. The Steelers know there are more plays for them over the middle of the field. Practice squad player Bucky Hodges is an attractive down-the-line option because of his sure hands.