We are already through the beginning of the offseason for the Pittsburgh Steelers. While there are months remaining, the roster reinforcements via free agency are mostly complete. There will, however, likely be a few more signings along with additions via the 2023 NFL Draft. Omar Khan and Andy Weidl have specifically worked to reload the team in the trenches as evidenced by the additions of key pieces in Nate Herbig, Isaac Seumalo and the re-signing of Larry Ogunjobi.
Photo Credit: Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO)
The Steelers' re-signing of Larry Ogunjobi was huge, as the team still needs some work along the defensive line.
Now, the team seems primed to fight for a postseason spot in 2023 in the second year of Kenny Pickett's time at quarterback. Garrett Podell of CBS Sports gave the Steelers a 'B+' grade for their offseason moves to this point. Furthermore, he specifically praised the signings of Cole Holcomb and Patrick Peterson, which helped replace some lost depth at those positions:
"While losing Cameron Sutton isn't ideal, replacing him with one of the NFL's active co-leader in interceptions, Patrick Peterson, is a solid pickup for two years and $14 million. Peterson totaled five interceptions this past season and had a 79.7 coverage grade, the eighth-highest among all cornerbacks according to Pro Football Focus. Linebacker Cole Holcomb, who comes over to replace former first round pick, Devin Bush, on a three-year deal, is a solid depth add."
Last week the Steelers received a A- from CBS.
Podell went on to praise the revival of the offensive line which has been the most encouraging part of the offseason thus far. It seems as if Khan is aiming to bring old-school football back to Pittsburgh and that starts with dominating in the trenches. It's a similar philosophy to which Weidl and the Philadelphia Eagles adopted when he was there. It seems like he has brought that blueprint to Pittsburgh as he and Khan work to bring the Steelers back to Super Bowl contention.
Photo Credit: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Steelers assistant general manager, Andy Weidl speaks to the media.
What Else Do The Steelers Need To Do This Offseason?
While the franchise, most notably, lost Cameron Sutton, the front office did quite well in recreating the roster. Peterson was perhaps the most shocking signing, as he came out of nowhere. He even admitted that to his cousin and former Steelers cornerback, Bryant McFadden in their recent episode of the All Things Covered podcast. Essentially, Peterson's agent came to him and asked about the Steelers and the deal was manufactured quickly.
Overall, many would agree that this has been a successful offseason for the black and gold. As aforementioned, there’s still work to be done in the upcoming draft. The front office still needs to fill some holes along with adding to the offensive and defensive lines as well as adding a formidable cornerback. Wide receiver may even be a mid-to-late round selection.
What has been your favorite move of the offseason thus far for the Steelers? What else does the front office need to do before the 2023 season? What are your expectations for the team now? Are they back to Super Bowl contention? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
#SteelerNation
