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Heading into the offseason, the Steelers will need to address several key positions across the roster. Below, we’ll take a closer look at where help is needed most and how Pittsburgh may go about fixing those issues. While the team has remained competitive, a combination of inflated defensive contracts and an offense that never truly found its footing points toward significant roster turnover. Upgrades are coming, whether through the draft, free agency, or trades, and under Omar Khan’s aggressive and unpredictable approach, few outcomes should be ruled out.
Wide Receiver
This is the most obvious and arguably the most pressing need on the roster. The Steelers finished 22nd in passing yards, a reflection of an offense that lacked consistency and explosiveness through the air. Young players like Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin have flashed, but neither has taken the leap to become a reliable No. 2 option. That issue was magnified by the departure of George Pickens, who went on to post an All-Pro-caliber season with 93 receptions, 1,429 yards, and 9 touchdowns after being dealt for just a third-round pick. The loss of that production left a clear void. Fortunately, this draft class offers intriguing wide receiver talent that will be available in the first round, with names like Makai Lemon, Denzel Boston, Jordyn Tyson, and Carnell Tate headlining a deep group of potential impact players.
Safety
One of the more under-the-radar needs on this roster is safety. Inconsistent play plagued the position throughout the season, and while Minkah Fitzpatrick may no longer be the elite, game-changing presence he once was, his absence was still noticeable. Communication breakdowns on the back end led to coverage busts, missed assignments, and a lack of playmaking in critical moments this year. Pittsburgh needs to inject youth into the position, something that could be addressed on Day 2 of the draft or through free agency.
Quarterback
Once again, the offseason brings the familiar conversation about the Steelers searching for a franchise quarterback. After passing on Jaxson Dart in the first round last year, it would be difficult to justify skipping the position again, even though this year’s class leaves much to be desired. Dante Moore’s pending decision to either remain in college or declare for the draft only adds more uncertainty. Several highly touted names such as: Drew Allar, Garrett Nussmeier, LaNorris Sellers, and Cade Klubnik, failed to live up to preseason expectations as the season progressed. That leaves Fernando Mendoza, a projected top-five pick, and Ty Simpson as the only quarterbacks widely viewed as true Day 1 options. Whether Pittsburgh chooses to take a swing early or wait and reassess in 2027, the lack of clarity at quarterback continues to shape every other roster decision.
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