The Steelers face many challenges this year. As the legacy of Ben Roethlisberger continues to fade into the background, and a new generation of offensive players take the field, we at the Sports Porch wonder if the Steelers will take a big step this year towards a successful future without their Hall of Fame QB and a new QB at the helm, or regress, as many teams do. Injuries are always a possibility, and then there are those season-ending difficulties. Although this time of year can appear to be negative, it can also be viewed positively. With the warm air comes the chance for rookies and unproven players to make their mark in the NFL. If they are successful, they could have a major effect on the Steelers' results.
Kenny Pickett
Photo by Michael Owens
Kenny Pickett is the major X-factor for the Steelers offense this season. The fanfare when he was drafted was off the charts, as the former Pitt Panther Quarterback was chosen in the first round, 23rd overall, in 2022. As a rookie, he took the bench in lieu of Mitch Trubisky as the starter and a mentor, but before the season was half-way over, Pickett was anointed THE QB. He has a strong work ethic, which could lead to progress in his development. Nevertheless, there is always the risk of setbacks. The team has invested in the offensive line so that Pickett can remain on the field, considering he has been in the concussion protocol twice in his first season. His performance will be key to the success of the offense this year. If he is unable to further his progress, the franchise's future could be in peril.
TJ Watt
T.J. Watt has had a monumental impact on the Steelers' success, both in the past, present, and future. When he is on the field, Pittsburgh's record is an impressive 59-26-2, but without him, they have struggled to win. The team's defense is heavily influenced by his presence and it is clear that he is a cornerstone of the team. Even if someone develops into a franchise quarterback, Watt is still the most important player for the Steelers this season. To keep the team successful, he will need to stay healthy and reliable week to week.
Cole Holcomb
This may seem like a strange pick, but Holcomb showed signs as a Washington Commander that he could be an effective MLB. The Steelers have a question mark on defense at middle linebacker, and have for the past four years. In the offseason, they brought in two free agents - Holcomb and Elandon Roberts - with Holcomb expected to take on the most starting reps. Holcomb was given a new contract, but he will need to show his worth before Pittsburgh looks for upgrades elsewhere. Perhaps this could be the year the Steelers figure out their linebacking core?
Joey Porter, Jr.
Credit: Matthew OHaren-USA TODAY Sports
This was a pick that the Porch saw coming miles away in the 2023 draft. It’s been debated over and over… but there is no question that Porter, Jr. flashes the skill to be an elite corner. It was speculated that the Steelers may trade this pick at the time, but, ultimately, they chose to stay put and take Porter, hopeful that he could easily transition to the NFL with his long and physical playing style. Reports from OTA's have been mostly positive for the rookie class, particularly for the cornerbacks; Cory Trice has been making plays and Porter has been following suit. Although football in shorts is not the best environment to evaluate the players, it has still been a positive start for their careers. It is likely that Porter will begin his career playing on the outside, while Patrick Peterson experiments in the slot. Ultimately, Porter's success could mean the difference between a good secondary and a poor one.
Broderick Jones
Photo by Jordon Kelly/Icon Sportswire
As far as the Steelers offense is concerned, the line has been one of the biggest issues. Drafting Broderick Jones was scene by many (and the Sports Porch) as a sign that the franchise is finally taking the issue seriously. However, some reports from camp have come in stating that Jones is struggling to pick up the pace of the NFL. The NFL is no joke and Jones is a work in progress going into the professional level. He's got an opportunity to compete with Dan Moore Jr. for a starting job on the left. It's possible the coaches will have him begin right away since they traded up to get him in the first round, but that could also mean going up against some of the top pass rushers in the NFL, so it could be a reason to hold him back. Moore has been practicing on the right side, so that could be a problem for Chuks Okorafor. Pittsburgh isn't afraid to shake up their offensive line, so it could be Jones on the left and Moore on the right. Dotson might also need to worry about his job, since it looks like his days of starting on the line may be behind him. Jones still has a lot to prove before he can be thought of as a starter in the trenches. He has the physical gifts and is a hard worker, so he could be a great asset in blocking Kenny Pickett's blindside.
Will the Steelers have a successful season this year? Well… ya gotta play the games first to see, but these 5 players are most likely to have the most… or least… amount of impact on the field. As Steelers fans… it’s getting harder to define a “successful” season nowadays, as it’s seemed for the last few years that Mike Tomlin NOT having a losing record is what has been defined by the organization as successful. But… we on the Sports Porch can tell you that it’s not what Steelers fans consider. We want another Lombardi! #HereWeGo
