As the Pittsburgh Steelers watch their cross-state rivals, the Philadelphia Eagles, prepare for the Super Bowl, they can’t help but feel a sense of disappointment. It’s been over a decade since the Steelers last appeared in the big game, and their once-lofty standard of competing for championships has faded into mere contentment with staying above average.
However, with the right changes, the Steelers can reclaim their status as Super Bowl contenders. Here are four crucial steps they must take:
Step 1: Modernize the Coaching Philosophy
The Steelers’ coaching staff, led by Mike Tomlin, needs to adapt to the modern game. The offense must become more efficient, and the defense needs to evolve and become more versatile. This means embracing new strategies, schemes, and technologies to stay ahead of the competition.
Step 2: Find a Franchise Quarterback
Since Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement, the Steelers have struggled to find a reliable quarterback. They’ve cycled through five starting quarterbacks, but none have solidified themselves as the answer. To compete for championships, the Steelers need a legitimate quarterback who can lead the team to victory. They can take a shot in this year’s draft or wait until 2026, which is projected to be a stronger quarterback class.
Step 3: Create a Supportive Environment for Young Quarterbacks
The Steelers must provide a supportive environment for their young quarterback to develop. This includes a tailored scheme, a competent coaching staff, and patience. The relationship between a quarterback and their head coach or offensive coordinator is vital, and the Steelers must establish a strong bond to help their quarterback thrive.
Step 4: Invest in the Offense
The Steelers currently allocate the most money in the NFL to their defense, while their offense ranks among the lowest in spending. To compete with high-powered offenses in the AFC, the Steelers must invest in playmakers and reinforcements along the offensive line. This means opening up the checkbook and making strategic signings to bolster the offense.
By taking these four crucial steps, the Steelers can reclaim their status as Super Bowl contenders and bring another championship to the city of Pittsburgh.
