From a Pittsburgh Steelers stellar defensive performance in Week 1, to a 2-6 drought, to scraping into playoff contention and ultimately falling short, here we are once again, Steeler Nation. What off-season moves can make our playoff dreams come true next season? After an optimistic second half of Kenny Pickett’s rookie campaign, the question marks no longer surround the next QB1 for the black and gold. With the overall youngest and fourth lowest-paid offense in the league, the Steelers have some work ahead of them to average more than 18 points per game next season. The question is, do we have the right pieces to become a contender, and what is our next move?
Steelers.com
If you’re a Yinzer, you might be ready to call Omar Khan to talk O-line, but not so fast.
Pickett isn’t afraid of contact, but his two concussions this season alone should speak to the need for better protection. Although our high draft picks present the perfect opportunity to select a talented offensive lineman, the Steelers should prioritize bringing in a veteran lineman to compete with the young group. The Pittsburgh Steelers boasted the only offensive line in the league to have the same starters all regular season, and although they gained consistency, a veteran up front could be what the unit needs to get to the next level. Some fans have expressed interest in free agents Orlando Brown Jr., Kaleb McGary, or AFC North Rival, Ben Powers.
So what do we do with the 17th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft? The answer is simple: find a quality linebacker and let Devin Bush walk.
I know, I know, it’s not the answer you were expecting or the fairytale we hoped for with the former Michigan standout. It’s no secret that Bush’s tenure in Pittsburgh hasn’t been what was expected following his ACL injury. With recent cryptic tweets, it’s safe to assume that he’s ready for a fresh start elsewhere. Although Myles Jack and Robert Spillane have been productive, the Steelers have not yet found their next Ryan Shazier. By keeping Spillane and Jack and seeking fresh talent in the draft, the Steelers could become a threat once again at the linebacker position.
AP
Cornerback Cameron Sutton is seen to be a top priority this off-season. This season was one of Sutton’s best with career-high interceptions and pass deflections. While we can seek a talented corner coming out of the draft, the Steelers can’t afford to lose #20. Another big topic of conversation will be Alex Highsmith: our unsung hero and a player snubbed of Pro Bowl honors this season. Extending Highsmith’s contract is what we need to keep Blitzburgh alive and well.
See Sutton's response to staying in Pittsburgh here.
Happily Ever After
Here we are. We drafted our star linebacker, found our veteran offensive lineman, kept Sutton and Highsmith, and thanks to Chase Claypool, we possess the 32nd pick in the draft as well. From here, we can boost our defensive line, fill in other needs in the secondary, and add depth to the receiving room. Is it the happily ever after that the 412 dreams of? Well, only time will tell.
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