Pittsburgh Steelers 2024 Preview

The Pittsburgh Steelers enter the 2024 season with an over/under win total of 8.5, coming off a 10-7 playoff campaign in 2023. Under the steady leadership of Mike Tomlin, who has never had a losing season, the Steelers look to continue their tradition of gritty, competitive football.

Let’s dive into what to expect from the Steelers this season and how they might navigate the league’s toughest schedule.

Key Insights and Team Overview

The Steelers made some significant changes this offseason, particularly on offense, while maintaining a strong defensive core. Here’s what you need to know:

Offensive Outlook

Quarterback Carousel:
- Russell Wilson’s Arrival: The Steelers brought in Russell Wilson on a one-year deal, hoping he can rejuvenate an offense that ranked 28th in points per game last season. Even a diminished Wilson is an upgrade over last year’s quarterback play, where the team managed just 13 passing touchdowns combined from Kenny Pickett and Mason Rudolph.
- Justin Fields as a Wildcard: If Wilson struggles, the Steelers have Justin Fields waiting in the wings. Fields’ athleticism and playmaking ability could provide a different dynamic, with packages likely designed to utilize his wheels.
Receiving Corps Adjustments:
- George Pickens Primed for a Breakout: Despite the shaky quarterback situation last year, Pickens still tallied 1,140 yards and five touchdowns. With Wilson at quarterback, Pickens could elevate his game even further.
- Departures and Additions: Deontay Johnson is no longer with the team, taking his 717 yards and five touchdowns with him. The Steelers will look to rookie Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin to fill the void, while tight end Pat Freiermuth, who missed time last year, is expected to play a bigger role in the passing game.
Running Back Duo:
- Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren: Harris led the team with over 1,000 rushing yards last season, while Warren was a pleasant surprise, averaging 5.3 yards per carry. Both backs are capable receivers, adding versatility to the offense.
Offensive Line Shuffle:
- Upgrades and Challenges: The Steelers made moves to improve their offensive line, drafting tackle Troy Fautanu in the first round and center Zack Frazier in the second. With Dan Moore struggling last season, Fautanu’s athleticism could provide a boost, though the transition may come with growing pains.

Defensive Adjustments

Dominant Front Seven:
- T.J. Watt’s Reign of Terror: Watt continues to be the heart and soul of the Steelers’ defense, coming off a season where he led the league in sacks for the third time in four years. His ability to disrupt games is unmatched.
- Key Additions: The Steelers added Patrick Queen, a tackling machine from Baltimore, to an already stout linebacking corps. With Queen joining Elandon Roberts and Cole Holcomb, the Steelers have a versatile and physical group to complement their fierce pass rush.
- Cameron Heyward’s Health: The Steelers will be hoping for a full season from Heyward, who managed just two sacks in an injury-shortened 2023. His presence is critical for both the pass rush and run defense.
Secondary Stability:
- Minkah Fitzpatrick’s Leadership: Fitzpatrick remains the leader of the secondary, coming off another Pro Bowl season despite missing time with injuries. His ability to play both the pass and the run makes him invaluable.
- New Faces at Cornerback: The Steelers parted ways with Levi Wallace and Patrick Peterson, bringing in Dante Jackson from Carolina. While Jackson had an up-and-down season last year, he brings experience to a unit that also includes rising star Joey Porter Jr., who impressed as a rookie.

Season Outlook

With the NFL’s toughest schedule based on expected win totals, the Steelers face a challenging path to the playoffs. However, with Tomlin at the helm and a retooled roster, they are more than capable of exceeding expectations. Here’s a breakdown of their potential floor and ceiling for 2024:

Win Total Floor: 9 Wins
- Why? Tomlin’s track record speaks for itself—he’s never had a losing season. Even if Wilson struggles, the Steelers have enough talent on both sides of the ball to scrape out at least nine wins, especially with a defense that can carry them through tough games.
Win Total Ceiling: 12 Wins
- Why? If Wilson finds his groove and the offense clicks, the Steelers could surprise many and contend for the AFC North title. A 12-5 record would require some upsets, particularly against division rivals, but it’s within reach if everything falls into place.

Final Thoughts

The Pittsburgh Steelers are a team built on resilience and consistency. With a defense that can dominate and an offense that has the potential to improve, the Steelers are poised for another competitive season. Whether they can navigate their brutal schedule and make a deep playoff run will largely depend on how well Russell Wilson adapts to his new surroundings and how quickly the offensive line gels.

Key Points Recap

Russell Wilson’s arrival could significantly boost the offense, though Justin Fields provides an intriguing backup option.
George Pickens is set for a breakout year, but the team needs new faces like Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin to step up.
The defense, led by T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick, remains one of the league’s best, with key additions like Patrick Queen bolstering the front seven.
Win total projection: 9 to 12 wins, depending on quarterback play and how the team handles the toughest schedule in the NFL.

Steelers fans, get ready for another gritty season—it’s going to be a battle, but with Tomlin at the helm, you know this team will fight until the very end!

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