Photo by Are the Steelers Stuck in Neutral?
The NFL offseason power rankings have Pittsburgh pegged at number 15, and it’s hard to argue with that assessment. The Steelers, led by the inimitable Mike Tomlin, seem to be stuck in a cycle of mediocrity, barely squeaking into the playoffs before getting eliminated. This season, they’re hoping that Russell Wilson or Justin Fields can be the spark that takes them to the next level.
But can they really? The Steelers’ rally to make the playoffs last season was impressive, but it masked some serious flaws in the team. They lost three home games in a row to less-than-stellar opponents, and only a series of close wins kept them afloat. And let’s be real, getting blown out in the wild-card playoff game by the Buffalo Bills was a harsh reminder of the gap between Pittsburgh and the AFC’s elite.
Pittsburgh’s playoff aspirations hinge on better QB play.
The quarterback situation is a major concern. Kenny Pickett, the 20th overall draft pick in 2022, is already gone, and the Steelers are left hoping that Russell Wilson or Justin Fields can provide some stability. But it’s hard to see either of them as a long-term solution. Wilson’s one-year, $1.2 million deal is a stopgap at best, and Fields is still an unknown quantity.
Wilson’s one-year deal may not be enough to propel the Steelers to greatness.
Then there’s the defense, which should be excellent again this season, led by T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick. But the offense, now without Diontae Johnson, will have to rely on the running game and hope for average quarterback play. It’s a recipe for more of the same – close wins, maybe a playoff appearance, but nothing more.
Watt will be key to the Steelers’ defensive success this season.
Mike Tomlin’s mantra, “The standard is the standard,” rings hollow when you consider the Steelers’ recent history. They’re stuck in a cycle of mediocrity, and it’s hard to see them breaking free anytime soon. Pittsburgh fans want more than just making the playoffs – they want a legitimate shot at the Super Bowl. And until the Steelers can figure out their quarterback situation, that’s just not going to happen.
What’s Next for the Steelers?
The Steelers will likely look familiar this season, even with the changes at quarterback. Tomlin will get the most out of his team, and they’ll find ways to win close games. But it’s not going to be enough to get them over the hump. They’ll make the playoffs, maybe even win a game or two, but ultimately, they’ll fall short.
Steelers fans are hungry for more than just playoff appearances.
So what’s the standard, anyway? Is it just making the playoffs and getting blown out, or is it something more? Until the Steelers can answer that question, they’ll be stuck in neutral, watching the rest of the NFL pass them by.
