‘Far From Finished:’ Analyst Sees Upside With Steelers’ Roster
PITTSBURGH, PA – Despite a challenging 2025 season that saw the Pittsburgh Steelers finish 8-9 and miss the AFC playoffs, a growing chorus of analysts believes the team’s roster is far from a finished product. While immediate improvements are needed, particularly on offense, a recent assessment by former NFL scout and current analyst, Jordan Miller, suggests the Steelers possess a foundation capable of contending in the AFC North within the next two seasons.
Miller, speaking on a recent broadcast with ESPN, highlighted the team’s defensive core as a significant strength. “The Steelers consistently field a top-10 defense,” Miller stated. “Players like T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick, and Cameron Heyward – when healthy – are game-changers. That’s a base to build around, and it allows you to address other areas without a complete overhaul.” Watt, the 2021 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, remains a dominant force, though his availability has been a concern in recent seasons due to injury. Fitzpatrick, a ball-hawking safety, provides crucial coverage in the secondary. Heyward, a veteran defensive tackle, continues to be a disruptive presence.
The most pressing concern for the Steelers remains the quarterback position. Kenny Pickett, the team’s first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has shown flashes of potential but has struggled with consistency and turnovers. His completion percentage hovered around 62% in 2025, with 13 touchdown passes and 11 interceptions. The team’s offensive line also faced significant challenges, allowing a high number of sacks and struggling to establish a consistent running game. According to data compiled by Pro Football Focus, the Steelers’ offensive line ranked 27th in the league in pass-blocking efficiency.
Offensive Line Improvements Key to Success
Miller emphasized that addressing the offensive line is paramount. “You can have the most talented quarterback in the world, but if he’s constantly under pressure, he won’t succeed,” he explained. “The Steelers need to invest in both free agency and the draft to upgrade their offensive line. They need players who can protect Pickett and create running lanes for Najee Harris.” Harris, the team’s starting running back, managed to rush for over 900 yards in 2025, but his average yards per carry was limited by the inconsistent blocking.
The Steelers have the 10th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, which presents an opportunity to select a highly-rated offensive tackle or guard. Several prospects are expected to be available, including Oregon’s Jackson Powers-Johnson and Alabama’s JC Latham. Still, the team may also consider trading up to secure a top-tier prospect. The team also has approximately $35 million in cap space, according to Spotrac, providing flexibility to pursue free-agent offensive linemen.
Receiving Corps Needs a Boost
Beyond the offensive line, the Steelers also need to improve their receiving corps. George Pickens emerged as a reliable target in 2025, but the team lacks a true No. 2 receiver. Diontae Johnson, a veteran receiver, struggled with consistency and dropped passes. The Steelers could explore adding a veteran receiver in free agency or drafting a promising prospect to complement Pickens. A deeper receiving threat would alleviate some of the pressure on Pickett and open up the offense.
The team’s coaching staff, led by head coach Mike Tomlin, also faces scrutiny. Tomlin has a remarkable track record of avoiding losing seasons, but his inability to lead the Steelers to a Super Bowl since 2009 has raised questions about his long-term future with the team. However, Tomlin remains a highly respected figure in the league, and the Steelers ownership has expressed continued confidence in his leadership.
Looking Ahead: 2026 Season Outlook
The Steelers’ 2026 schedule presents a challenging slate, with matchups against all three other teams in the AFC North – the Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, and Cleveland Browns – twice each. They also face interconference games against the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers. Success in 2026 will depend on the team’s ability to address its offensive deficiencies and improve its consistency.
Miller believes the Steelers are capable of making significant strides in the upcoming season. “I think the Steelers are a team that’s on the cusp of contention,” he said. “If they can improve their offensive line, add a reliable receiver, and get consistent play from Kenny Pickett, they can be a playoff team in 2026.” The Steelers’ next key date is the start of free agency on March 19th, followed by the NFL Draft in late April. Fans will be closely watching how the team utilizes these opportunities to reshape its roster and build towards a brighter future.
The Steelers will open the 2026 season at home against the Cincinnati Bengals on September 13th (1:00 PM ET / 17:00 UTC).
