The Pittsburgh Steelers enjoyed a solid 2023 season, making it to the playoffs and showcasing a roster full of talents. However, their journey was cut short by an early playoff exit at the hands of the Buffalo Bills. As the 2024 NFL training camp approaches, the Steelers face several critical weaknesses that need to be addressed to ensure a deeper postseason run in the upcoming season.
© FNEWS.AI – Images created and owned by Fnews.AI, any use beyond the permitted scope requires written consent from Fnews.AI
Perhaps the most glaring issue for the Steelers is their offensive line. Despite showing flashes of competence, the unit struggled with consistency throughout the 2023 season. Pass protection was particularly problematic, leading to numerous sacks and hurried throws that hampered the overall effectiveness of the offense. The left tackle position remains a revolving door, with no player solidifying their role as a reliable protector for the quarterback. Improving the offensive line is crucial to providing better protection and creating more running lanes for the backfield.
Speaking of the backfield, the running game is another area of concern for the Steelers. While Najee Harris continues to show promise, the depth behind him is questionable. Injuries have plagued this position, and the lack of a dependable backup running back has led to an over-reliance on Harris. This one-dimensional approach makes the offense predictable and easier to defend. Adding depth and versatility to the running game will be vital for the Steelers to keep defenses guessing and maintain a balanced offensive attack.
© FNEWS.AI – Images created and owned by Fnews.AI, any use beyond the permitted scope requires written consent from Fnews.AI
Quarterback play is another critical area that requires attention. Kenny Pickett took over the reins last season, showing moments of brilliance but also displaying his inexperience. Consistency and decision-making are areas where Pickett needs to show marked improvement. The Steelers might need to consider bringing in a veteran presence to mentor him and provide a safety net in case of underperformance or injury. A solid backup plan will ensure that the team can remain competitive even if the starting quarterback struggles.
Injuries to key defensive players have also exposed depth issues on the defensive end. Linebackers and cornerbacks have been particularly affected, causing noticeable drop-offs in performance when starters are sidelined. The lack of depth was evident in their inability to contain high-powered offenses, which became a significant problem during critical stretches of the season. Reinforcing the depth chart with capable backups who can step in without a significant loss in quality will be important for the Steelers’ defensive stability.
Special teams, often overlooked, have their own set of issues that need addressing. Inconsistent kicking and punting performances have cost the Steelers valuable field position during games. Moreover, the return game lacks the explosiveness to consistently threaten opposing coverage units. Enhancing these special teams facets can give the Steelers a hidden advantage in close contests, where every yard can make a difference.
Coaching and game management were areas that drew criticism last season. Clock management, particularly in high-pressure situations, left much to be desired. Mismanagement of timeouts and questionable decision-making often put the Steelers in disadvantageous positions. Improving this aspect of their game through better strategies and perhaps even adding a time management specialist to the coaching staff could greatly benefit the team in tight games.
The wide receiver corps, while talented, has faced issues with drops and inconsistency. Making spectacular catches is not enough if basic plays are mishandled. Focusing on technical improvement and perhaps reshuffling the receiving lineup can ensure that the Steelers have reliable targets for their quarterback. Developing a strong connection between the quarterback and receivers through rigorous training and practice sessions can mitigate this weakness.
As the 2024 training camp nears, the Steelers must pursue strategic improvements across the board. Addressing the offensive line, running game depth, quarterback performance, defensive depth, special teams, coaching decisions, and wide receiver consistency will be imperative. By tackling these weaknesses head-on, the Steelers can enhance their chances of making a deeper playoff run and potentially contending for the Super Bowl.
Was this content helpful to you?
