2023 Pittsburgh Steelers season: 10-7; wild card loss
Overview: The Steelers managed to win a bunch of close games and qualify for the playoffs in 2023 despite not having a fantastic or very outstanding roster. Additionally, they managed to tie No. 2 seed Buffalo in the wild-card round despite entering the postseason as the seventh and last seed in the AFC.
At quarterback, Pittsburgh was never really satisfied with their options. 2022 first-round pick Kenny Pickett was largely unproductive until suffering an ankle injury in Week 13, and even when healthy, he was unable to hold down a starting position. Although he had his moments as a backup quarterback, Mason Rudolph didn’t exactly appear like a franchise quarterback. To match its winning total from the previous season, this team will likely need to make a significant move at quarterback, but as long as Mike Tomlin is in charge, the Steelers are in capable hands. As the head coach of the Steelers for 17 years, he has yet to have a losing season.
Who is present or absent? Although there aren’t many important players in Pittsburgh who could be available for free agency, Levi Wallace’s possible departure highlights their cornerback position and the skill they need to add. Mason Rudolph started Pittsburgh’s playoff game and had a strong last regular season, but he’s allegedly interested in joining a different team in 2024.
Important requirements for free agents
Quarterback Defensive end Cornerback
What causes the holes? Tomlin responded, “There will be competition,” when asked if Pickett will be the team’s starting quarterback the following season. This seems to be a clear sign that the organization intends to bolster its QB room through the draft or free agency. Ryan Tannehill, a potential free agent, is allegedly of interest to the Pittsburgh Steelers. The team needs a young movement at cornerback. Although Joey Porter Jr. is a standout, the current lineup for that group is extremely thin. Furthermore, an offensive line is essential for a team lacking star power.
Do they possess the funds? Not quite yet. It is estimated that the Steelers will exceed the cap by $4.4 million. There is work to be done, but not an overwhelming quantity of it.
