Category: Pittsburgh Steelers

Throwback Thursday: Steelers recent receiver trade returns

Steel City Underground takes fans back in time to feature events, special moments, and historical times and players in the world of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Steelers Nation. Join us in our “Steelers Throwback Thursday” series as we revisit these moments.

On Wednesday, it was confirmed by the Pittsburgh Steelers and Dallas Cowboys that a trade deal had been negotiated to put wide receiver George Pickens in Texas for the 2025 NFL season. Pickens is the most recent – and perhaps surprising – receiver trades in recent Steelers but not alone in having been dealt away. We look at how Pickens’ trade deal – and what Pittsburgh got in return – compares to other receiver trades in the past few years.

Pickens deal

The Steelers fanbase was a bit disenfranchised by the attitude Pickens has shown while in Pittsburgh, as Joe Kuzma and Brian E. Roach addressed on the Steel City Underground podcast several times; most recently they spoke about Pickens on Wednesday afternoon.

The deal for Pickens by the Cowboys is likely not as fortuitous for the Steelers as fans would have hoped. Considered a top-tier receiver, Pickens only gave Pittsburgh a trade return of a third round pick in 2026 and two extra draft selections in 2027.

How does his deal compare to other recent receiver trades that the Steelers have made? And was it a win or a loss?

Embed from Getty Images

The Diontae Deal

The most recent receiver trades by the Steelers include Diontae Johnson (2024), Chase Claypool (2023), Antonio Brown (2019), Martavis Bryant (2018), and Santonio Holmes (2010) as confirmed by Christopher Carter.

Each of those receivers was highly regarded as talent at the time, and some created a lot of chatter across Steelers Nation – similar to what is happening with the Pickens trade news.

Johnson was dealt to the Carolina Panthers on March 12, 2024 in exchange for cornerback Donte Jackson and the 178th overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft, which Pittsburgh used to draft Iowa DT Logan Lee. While Lee has yet to be tested, Jackson served the Steelers fairly well by grabbing 5 interceptions.

Meanwhile, Johnson was quickly traded from Carolina to the Baltimore Ravens on October 29 of the same year for a sixth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. When he was released, Johnson joined the Houston Texans in December 2024. Johnson was again released and was claimed again by the Ravens before the Cleveland Browns signed him to a one-year, $1.17 million contract on April 28, 2025.

Embed from Getty Images

Compensation and return for other receivers on the list

Claypool was traded to the Chicago Bears on November 1, 2022, in exchange for their second-round pick (32nd overall) which the Steelers later used to select Joey Porter Jr.) in the 2023 NFL draft. Claypool was then traded to the Miami Dolphins, then signed with the Buffalo Bills only to end up in the Canadian Football League.

On March 9, 2019, the Steelers agreed to trade Brown to the Oakland Raiders in exchange for a third and a fifth round selection in the 2019 NFL draft. Pittsburgh selected Justin Layne in the third round, after picking up Johnson, and then tight end Zach Gentry in the fifth per Pro Football Reference. Steelers fans are well acquainted with what happened to Brown once he left Pittsburgh.

Embed from Getty Images

Selected by the Steelers in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL draft, Bryant had his ups and downs as a player and an individual – including suspensions for breaking the NFL’s substance use policies – before Pittsburgh traded him to the (then) Oakland Raiders on April 26, 2018 for a third round pick in the 2018 draft. With that 76th pick overall, the Steelers selected quarterback Mason Rudolph who has rejoined the Steelers for the 2025 NFL season.

Bryant became a journeyman, spending time with the Dallas Cowboys, and Washington Commanders, the Toronto Argonauts and Edmonton Elks of the Canadian Football League (CFL), the Massachusetts Pirates of the Indoor Football League (IFL), the Beasts of Fan Controlled Football (FCF), and the Vegas Vipers of the XFL.

Holmes was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the 2006 NFL draft after playing college football for the Ohio State Buckeyes. After numerous brushes with the law, Holmes was traded to the New York Jets in exchange for a fifth-round pick in the 2010 draft. The Steelers then traded that pick to the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for a sixth round pick, which they used to draft Antonio Brown, and reacquired Bryant McFadden.

Embed from Getty Images

Were the results worth it for the Steelers?

Every receiver the Steelers traded (on this list of recent trades) was evaluated, at the time, to have expended their use to the team. The players Pittsburgh got in return didn’t always pan out the way they hoped, but some met expectation.

Gentry played in all 17 games of the Steelers’ 2021 season. In the playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Gentry the final professional pass thrown by Ben Roethlisberger. He and Pat Freiermuth built a friendship that entertained Steelers fans with their barbque themed video series as well.

Porter is considered a homerun pick and is currently a starting cornerback – like Jackson was – for the Steelers. His ceiling continues to be high.

While we will not know for awhile how the picks exchanged for Pickens will pan out, yet, it gives Pittsburgh the opportunity to really turn heads in the 2026 draft and plan for the future.

Throwback Thursday: Steelers recent receiver trade returns appeared first on Steel City Underground.

Was it wise for the Steelers to trade George Pickens?

The Pittsburgh Steelers have reportedly agreed to terms to trade WR George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys. The Steelers will receive a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick in exchange for Pickens and a 2027 sixth-round pick.

The long-standing rumors came to fruition as the two sides looked to make moves. On Dallas’ side, GM Jerry Jones continued to look for another component to complement QB Dak Prescott and WR CeeDee Lamb.

For Pittsburgh, the team had been speculated to move on from Pickens as early as the end of last season. Trade rumors heated up after GM Omar Khan acquired WR D.K. Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks, leaving the Steelers with a bona fide star on the roster but without a second-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft.

With the transaction pending Pickens passing a physical with the Cowboys, everyone is left asking: is this the right move for the Steelers? Here are some positives and negatives of the trade to help answer that question.

Embed from Getty Images

Final year of rookie contract

Aside from losing draft capital earlier this offseason via the Metcalf trade, most critics of the Steelers felt that Pickens would no longer be with the team once his rookie contract expired. The initial four-year deal ran through the 2025 season, making either an extension or trade a viable option for Pittsburgh.

With current wide receiver contracts hedging around a $30 million per year average, and Khan having already inked Metcalf to a new blockbuster deal, it was unlikely the Steelers were going to secure Pickens’ services beyond this season.

In 2026, 22 receivers—over half of the league—will earn an average salary of $20 million or more, with eight of those players earning an average of $30 million or more. One of those eight is Metcalf, making it near impossible for the Steelers to have two receivers earning that kind of money each season.

The end result could’ve been Pickens creating a situation during training camp by sitting out, causing more gasoline to be poured on his proverbial fire. Needless to say the Steelers got ahead of that potential situation.

Embed from Getty Images

On-field performance

Paying Pickens a premium price was also hard to justify given his on-field performance. I believe Pickens is an immensely talented player, and given a rough go with the quarterbacks that were throwing to him, too. However, it became apparent there was an issue with his attitude and effort, as witnessed several times last season.

Pickens was called to the carpet for not blocking on a run play and giving up on several routes throughout the year, including one play that led to Russell Wilson leading the receiver, but instead being picked off when the player stopped short.

That one play was far from the only miscue, and with Pickens having only one 1,000-yard season and unable to break out on his own as the primary team receiver, the writing was on the wall.

With only two 100-yard games last season, and 12 career touchdowns in 48 games, it was perhaps time to sell high on a player the team wasn’t going to re-sign.

Embed from Getty Images

Didn’t draft a replacement

The missing piece of the puzzle is that the Steelers didn’t pick up another receiver in the 2025 NFL Draft. The typical Pittsburgh blueprint is to draft a player at a position with an expiring contract, a year early.

With both George Pickens and Calvin Austin entering the final year of their current deals, it would appear the Steelers were in the market for a receiver. However, this year’s draft class was weaker, and the team already spent a second-round pick to trade for Metcalf, making a receiver addition difficult when there were other pressing needs.

The assumption may have been that Khan traded Pickens during the draft to recoup his second-round pick and acquire his replacement. That would also assume the incoming rookie would be as talented as Pickens, which is not a given.

Embed from Getty Images

Pairing with Metcalf

Pairing Pickens with Metcalf looked like a 1-2 punch that would rival the Cincinnati Bengals duo of Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. It also appeared that the Steelers’ pairing would lure a veteran quarterback to Pittsburgh or at least aid a young passer in the offense.

That dream is now null and void, but only because of the unknown. Will another Steelers receiver step up, or will the team add another player soon?

Embed from Getty Images

The other Steelers receivers

The remaining Steelers receivers are a group of unknowns, but also a group of capable players. Calvin Austin and Roman Wilson are both fast, clocking 40 times in the 4.2 to 4.3 range at their NFL Combine.

Austin enters the final year of his contract. He caught 36 passes for 548 yards and four touchdowns in 2024: that’s one more TD than Pickens had.

Wilson, a 2024 third-round pick, didn’t see the field after battling injuries for much of last season. He was an integral part of the 2023 Michigan Wolverines NCAA National Championship run. A physical and fast receiver, he will be more willing to stick his nose in run plays than Pickens.

The team recently signed veteran Robert Woods as well. The 33-year-old’s best days are behind him as a receiver, but he can still add experience to a young room while also being leaned on for special-teams return duties. (Those duties should spell Austin to take a shot at being the starter opposite Metcalf.)

Ben Skowronek and Scotty Miller round out the notable names on the wide receiver depth chart. Each has contributed on special teams with Skowronek the unlikely hero in several spot situations last season. One or both may be leaned on in subpackages, particularly run-heavy sets too.

Embed from Getty Images

More additions coming?

The remaining available free agents on the market don’t strike much confidence in improving a room losing the potential of a player like Pickens. However, it could bring more stability to sign someone like Keenan Allen (age 33) or Amari Cooper (age 30).

Allen continues to post impressive numbers despite climbing in years. He had 108 receptions for 1,243 yards in 2023 with the Chargers and 70 catches for 744 with the Bears in 2024. He’s caught seven touchdowns in each of those last two seasons.

Cooper is someone the Steelers have intimate knowledge of, having faced him for years as a member of the Cleveland Browns. Cooper never quite caught on after a midseason trade sent him to the Buffalo Bills, following a slow start with the Browns chaotic quarterback situation. However, Cooper’s first two seasons in Cleveland saw him put up 150 receptions for 2,410 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Despite erratic quarterback play and joining a different team midseason, Cooper put up more catches (194), yards (2,957) and touchdowns (18) than Pickens career stat line of 174, 2,841, and 12. Cooper isn’t the future, but if the Steelers are looking to match production, they could do no worse than bringing “Coop” in for a visit.

Was it wise for the Steelers to trade George Pickens? appeared first on Steel City Underground.

What is the likelihood that Will Howard is the future of the Steelers?

In the aftermath of the 2025 NFL Draft, many offseason workouts and camps are starting around the league. Fans and analysts are pondering the Pittsburgh Steelers approach to the quarterback position as these activities are underway, beginning with a rookie minicamp, which gets underway on May 8th.

Among the rookies who will attend is Steelers former Ohio State Buckeye quarterback Will Howard. Howard is generating a buzz in the Steel City after being selected in the sixth round by Pittsburgh. With the Steelers having made no other significant moves at the position this offseason, the chatter is if Howard can make an impact with the organization.

There are a variety of factors that stand in Howard’s way, but for any negatives, there are positives to balance out what could be a young, bright career. For fans eager to place wagers on rising talent, there’s even more reason to get excited—betting platforms now let users enjoy low fees and fast transactions for betting on these quarterbacks’ futures. Some real-life examples abound, such as players who were initially overlooked but achieved great success in the league, despite their draft status.

However, for any rookie looking to build a long and successful career, I believe there’s no “if” scenario with Howard seeing the field: it will be a matter of “when”.

Embed from Getty Images

A large obstacle in Howard’s way is being a rookie. Many NFL rookies are tossed into action too early. Of those, a great many quarterbacks are put in poor situations. Those poor situations become worse, leading to a perpetual cycle of firing GMs and coaches who then seek new quarterbacks. The rest of the talent on the team suffers – look at teams like the Tennessee Titans, Las Vegas Raiders, New York Jets, and even the Cleveland Browns, who have had little or no success on those fronts.

Howard walks into a somewhat stable situation in Pittsburgh. GM Omar Khan enters his third season in his role, but has been in an administrative position with the franchise since 2001. Head coach Mike Tomlin has been with the Steelers since 2007, and while Tomlin has been trying to dig out of a playoff losing streak, the club has made the postseason several times and still hasn’t posted a losing record since 2003.

Whether Howard is the answer to Tomlin’s playoff woes won’t be known for some time. The stable situation means Howard won’t be on the field playing in Week 1. The Steelers’ head coach is also stubborn when it comes to his rookies, leveraging an old-school “earn it” mentality to foster competition and also make sure inexperience doesn’t tank the team’s prospects early in the season.

Such has been the case with several other rookies over the years, including how Tomlin handled former first-round pick Kenny Pickett in 2022. Pickett wouldn’t become the starter until Week 5, and he, too, was rushed into duty when Mitchell Trubisky faltered.

Embed from Getty Images

A similar scenario could play out in 2025, too. Pittsburgh brought former 2018 third-round selection Mason Rudolph back on a two-year deal this offseason. Rudolph was offered a deal after leading the Steelers to the playoffs with a three-game win streak to finish the 2023 season. However, after Russell Wilson announced he would join the team last offseason, Rudolph went another direction, signing with the Tennessee Titans.

Rudolph returns to a team with a different offensive coordinator, but several familiar offensive pieces still in place such as WR George Pickens, RB Jaylen Warren, and TE Pat Freiermuth. Perhaps Tomlin has had a change of heart and will give Rudolph a full opportunity that he’s lacked while sitting behind Ben Roethlisberger during his early career and then competing with Trubisky and Pickett for playing time.

With 18 career NFL starts, Rudolph is the presumed starter as of now. If he plays well, Tomlin won’t rush an inexperienced Howard into action. Yet, that can also change if free-agent veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers makes a decision and signs with the Steelers.

Embed from Getty Images

Rodgers’ joining the team would be a blessing and a curse for Howard. On one hand, he moves further down the depth chart, possibly inactive as the team’s emergency quarterback on game days. On the other hand, learning behind a future Hall of Fame candidate like Rodgers might be the best thing for his development.

If the depth chart remains the same with Rudolph and Skylar Thompson, a former seventh-round pick of the Miami Dolphins, Howard might have an opportunity to play as soon as this season. Injuries are common around the league, and as many as 60 quarterbacks have taken a regular-season snap over the last few seasons.

The Steelers aren’t immune to the injury bug, having had Trubisky, Pickett, and Rudolph rotate time in 2022 and 2023, and again playing three quarterbacks in 2024 when Wilson gave way to Justin Fields, and even Kyle Allen saw some playing time when Fields was briefly sidelined.

Rudolph had a rocky 2019 season in which he was concussed and then got into an altercation with Myles Garrett. Both incidents led to undrafted quarterback Devlin Hodges (“Duck”) playing. Rudolph’s season ended with a broken collarbone in the next-to-last game against the Jets.

Embed from Getty Images

That kind of unpredictability could lead to Howard getting playing time, but his talent will also dictate if he ascends to the primary backup role. The larger-bodied QB played is no stranger to big-time games, as Ohio State won the first expanded College Football Playoff. His competitiveness could turn heads and will certainly have Rudolph looking over his shoulder to stave off the youngster.

In the worst-case scenario, should the other quarterbacks remain healthy but the Steelers squander their season, we might see Howard take the field in the final games of the regular season. With nothing to lose, the team will be able to evaluate their young quarterback in a “real” game setting that can’t be replicated in the preseason.

That experience would then build into whatever the Steelers’ plans are in 2026. If Howard shows enough promise, they may not be in the market for another quarterback. If he plays poorly, Pittsburgh could be positioned higher in the draft to make a splash for a big-name passer, as the host city of the 2026 NFL Draft, no less.

Regardless, everyone should pump the brakes on pushing Howard onto the field too soon. Other teams passed on him for evaluation reasons, and there’s no doubt the Steelers had the same concerns. It’s exciting to know there’s a new, unknown prospect in the building. However, the last time the Steelers had one of those, using a higher draft selection, it turned out poorly.

Mike Tomlin has always preferred veteran quarterbacks throughout his tenure, too. Surely the team learned their lesson from last time and won’t rush the Buckeye out there before he’s ready.

What is the likelihood that Will Howard is the future of the Steelers? appeared first on Steel City Underground.

Steelers early offensive line depth concerning

The Pittsburgh Steelers spent two offseasons focused on bolstering their offensive lines, including addressing it via the NFL Draft, in recent years. They did not select any linemen in the 2025 draft, but have brought in an undrafted rookie as well as some younger talent ahead of training camp. The looming question is: are the Steelers deep enough at each position along the line to compete or is depth concerning?

Embed from Getty Images

Centers

As of now, Pittsburgh has just two players rostered at the center position: Zach Frazier and Ryan McCollum. Barring moving someone with some snapping experience from another spot on the line, that leaves the Steelers shallow at the position.

While Frazier excelled his rookie, year two will see him snapping the ball to yet another group of quarterbacks. The Steelers got lucky when Frazier was injured in Week 6 (Las Vegas Raiders) of the 2023 season when McCollum took over through two games (Week 9 was the bye for Pittsburgh).

Guard Lecitus Smith (Virginia Tech), who was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2022, has center experience but has played in just 18 career games while bouncing between the Houston Texans, Philadelphia Eagles, Green Bay Packers, and New England Patriots before joining the Steelers.

Embed from Getty Images

Tackles

The Steelers are similarly shallow at tackle with just four players currently rostered: Calvin Anderson, Dylan Cook, Troy Fautanu, and Broderick Jones.

Fautanu saw playing time in just one regular season game his rookie season due to injury, which required Jones to slide to right tackle once again – and he struggled at times. While Fautanu appears healthy, and it is assumed Jones will move to left tackle – his natural position – it is concerning to only have two backups in Anderson and Cook.

Anderson entered the league in 2019 as an undrafted free agent. After being released by the New England Patriots and New York Jets, he settled-in with the Denver Broncos until 2022. He has played in just 50 NFL games due to suffering from malaria (during humanitarian work) and a heart contusion while with the Patriots in 2023. He can play both tackle spots, or as the swing tackle, but needs to learn Pittsburgh’s system.

Cook is an undrafted free agent who signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023 before joining the Steelers last season. He has yet to play an NFL game and is a relative unknown.

Embed from Getty Images

Guards

The Steelers have a slew of guards to choose from on their current roster; eight if you count Spencer Anderson. The most veteran are Isaac Seumalo and Max Scharping. The remaining have less than three years of experience in the league apiece.

While fans are familiar with Mason McCormick and Anderson, they have yet to see Steven Jones, Doug Nester, Smith, or Aiden Williams in black and gold… or see how position versatile they may be.

Mini camps and OTAs are going to prove critical testing grounds for Pittsburgh’s current crop of offensive linemen. The team needs to identify skills quickly should they need to reach out for replacements ahead of training camp in the late summer.

There is real possibility that the Steelers will keep their fingers on the pulse of the market as other teams shuffle offensive linemen as well. Finding a more veteran, experienced player isn’t out of the question and may become a top priority as weeks progress.

If this franchise learned anything from the 2023 season it is that depth on the offensive line has an effect on how well the offense operates overall. When injuries came into play, the line waffled a bit in protection and run-blocking. With the way the Steelers stacked their defensive line, they can’t afford to not be as explosive in the trenches on offense.

Steelers early offensive line depth concerning appeared first on Steel City Underground.

SCU Week in Review – May 4th

In case you missed it (or anything) the SCU Week in Review recaps all articles, videos, posts and more, shared via Steel City Underground’s various platforms throughout the week.

Reviewing what went right and wrong with the Steelers 2025 draft

So, how did the Steelers do in this year’s NFL Draft? Joe and Brian break down each, including the players Pittsburgh passed on and how their overall strategy played out over three days.

Which picks were the best value? Was there a swing and a miss, or did the Steelers hit a few homeruns?

The hosts delve into these questions and more in this post-draft review.

View the video below on YouTube or visit our podcast page to find it on all popular audio platforms.

Weekly Highlights

Steelers select National Champions in Sawyer, Howard

Steelers select National Champions in Sawyer, Howard

Bruener, Black, Kent round out Steelers 2025 draft class

Bruener, Black, Kent round out Steelers 2025 draft class

Steelers: UDFA updates; Woods replacing Wilson?

Steelers: UDFA updates; Woods replacing Wilson?

Throwback Thursday: A history of Steelers head coaches

Throwback Thursday: A history of Steelers head coaches

My favorite moves of the Steelers 2025 offseason

My favorite moves of the Steelers 2025 offseason

SCU Week in Review – May 4th appeared first on Steel City Underground.

Plays of the Year: T.J. Watt earns 100th career sack

Steel City Underground presents “Plays of the Year” featuring the top runs, catches, hits, and everything else in between from the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 2024 season.

It didn’t too take long in Week 4’s Sunday Night Football game for the Pittsburgh Steelers defense to earn the first takeaway of the night against the Dallas Cowboys. With eight seconds left in the first quarter, team captain T.J. Watt got home to earn his 100th career sack.

The Cowboys and Steelers were tied, 3-3, as Dallas’ offense lined up for 1st & 10 at their own 24 with 4:41 left in the opening quarter. Dak Prescott led the offense down the field on eight plays to get within striking distance of the end zone.

On 3rd & 6 at the Pittsburgh 11-yard line, Prescott took the snap from shotgun and both Watt and rookie outside linebacker Nick Herbig converged. Watt was able to outmaneuver his blocker and close on Prescott who’d turned towards Herbig in order to avoid the pressure coming from his left. It’s unlikely Prescott realized Watt had closed the distance.

Watt wrapped Prescott up, the football popped loose, and Herbig smartly fell on the fumble for the recovery.

The two former Wisconsin Badgers, Watt and Herbig, split the sack with 0.5 apiece. The sack, however, put Watt at 100 total sacks in his career, making his ascent to that mark the second-quickest in the NFL behind just Reggie White. White reached the mark in 96 games to Watt’s 109 games.

The congratulations began rolling in across X (formerly Twitter) from Watt’s brother J.J. Watt, the league, the Steelers and other notable figures.

Later, in the same game, Watt recorded another sack to bring his career total to 101. He would finish the 2024 season with 11.5 sacks.

Congratulations, T.J.

Plays of the Year: T.J. Watt earns 100th career sack appeared first on Steel City Underground.

My favorite moves of the Steelers 2025 offseason

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ offseason transactions are slowly coming to a close as new team additions were made at the beginning of the year. Including free agency, the NFL Draft, and trades, General Manager Omar Khan has navigated the waters to bring a tight roster together in preparation for the 2025 season.

As the offseason workouts arrive within the coming weeks, we wanted to look back on the moves the GM has made since the Steelers’ disappointing defeat in the Wild Card game against the Baltimore Ravens. We’re highlighting the top 10 picks plus analysis from the first few months of the offseason and how it will impact Pittsburgh’s future.

Embed from Getty Images

The D.K. Metcalf trade

The D.K. Metcalf trade sent shockwaves throughout Steelers Nation as a high-profile move the team has been looking to make since around this same time last season. Khan sent a second-round pick plus swapped a later round pick to acquire the star wide receiver.

The move was a blockbuster one as it was believed other teams were in the market for the 28-year-old Metcalf, including the Los Angeles Chargers. In the end, it was the Steelers who landed the two-time Pro Bowler.

Metcalf immediately upgrades a receiver room that featured George Pickens and barely anyone else last season. Metcalf will draw attention away from the budding star while Pickens could do the same for the veteran. Both options give whoever is throwing the ball in Pittsburgh a plethora of options on offense, potentially bolstering their offensive attack this season.

Embed from Getty Images

Not trading George Pickens

In the same vein of acquiring Metcalf, keeping George Pickens was a brilliant move. Rumors were swirling that the Steelers could package Pickens, who is in the final year of his original rookie contract, to recoup the second round pick lost in the Metcalf trade.

Instead they retain a player with “WR1” abilities, at least for 2025: if not beyond. With no large quarterback contract on their ledger, it’s entirely possible that the Steelers could retain both Metcalf and Pickens for the foreseeable future to help guide them through finding their franchise quarterback.

Embed from Getty Images

Walking away from Najee Harris, drafting Kaleb Johnson

Najee Harris was an enigma during his time with the Steelers. Seldom did Harris miss games or turn the ball over, but at the same time his lack of explosive plays was evident too. With Harris’ contract expiring, many were wondering if the former captain would be re-signed by the Steelers. That answer would be no, as the front office dipped into the draft to search for his younger replacement.

Enter Iowa’s Kaleb Johnson, who torched opposing teams in the Big Ten last season for 1,537 yards and 21 touchdowns. Johnson is believed to be a more explosive player in the same build as Harris, in that the former copies the traits of the latter with ball security and a knack for breaking tackles.

The knock on Johnson is pass protection, but with Jaylen Warren still on the depth chart the Steelers have one of the nastiest backfield blockers in the league as the two will split time on the field.

Embed from Getty Images

Drafting Will Howard

It’s hard to believe a quarterback fresh off of winning the NCAA National Championship fell into the sixth round.

It was obvious to everyone that the Steelers would seek a quarterback in the draft and Howard became their answer. The Ohio State product threw for over 4,000 yards and 35 touchdowns in 2024 after transferring from Kansas State.

The knock on Howard is his arm strength and critics will say he played on a loaded team: but having won the first expanded College Football Playoff also means that Howard played against many high picks in this year’s draft who will be on opposing sidelines come this fall.

With some time and development, Howard could end up being the steal of the draft.

Embed from Getty Images

Walking away from Justin Fields Russell Wilson

Many people won’t agree with my assessment, but walking away from Justin Fields was a wise decision for the Steelers. Despite not having a defined answer at the quarterback position, Fields was far from a defined product as well.

His 4-2 start in 2024 mirrored that of Kenny Pickett’s 2023 start, and when Russell Wilson took the starting role after Fields finished 1-2 in his last three starts, and failing to throw for 200 yards in either loss, it was apparent his days as a Steelers starter were over.

Wilson would take the offense to new heights over the next seven games, gaining over one hundred yards of offense and scoring ten more points per game. Though Wilson was a better option, his limited play and multiple mistakes saw the Steelers fall in their final five games, and he too was not invited back.

The team needs to improve in this department and the only way to do so is by trying out other option. Doing the same thing again would be the definition of insanity, so kudos to Khan for realizing this and not being trapped into a long-term turmoil with Fields or Wilson.

Embed from Getty Images

Reworking Cole Holcomb’s contract

A prized free agent signing in 2023, Holcomb’s season that year ended abruptly and he would miss all of 2024. Rehabbed and ready to return, he reworked his contract with the Steelers and is poised for a comeback.

On a team that’s always looking for health inside linebackers who can make plays, the decision to work this out with Holcomb could end up paying large dividends for the Steelers defense.

My favorite moves of the Steelers 2025 offseason appeared first on Steel City Underground.

Throwback Thursday: A history of Steelers head coaches

Steel City Underground takes fans back in time to feature events, special moments, and historical times and players in the world of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Steelers Nation. Join us in our “Steelers Throwback Thursday” series as we revisit these moments.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are a historic NFL franchise. With six Super Bowl championships and a decades-long legacy, groundbreaking coaching has driven their reign. Some of the all-time greatest football minds have roamed the Steelers’ sidelines, building championship teams and defining the franchise’s identity.

Here, we look at the successful Pittsburgh Steelers coaches who built the team’s legacy.

For those who love following the Steelers and want to add an extra thrill to the game, GGBet online offers exciting betting options. Whether predicting game results or individual player performances, the bookmaker provides safe and easy betting for NFL fans. Just remember—bet responsibly and enjoy the game!

Embed from Getty Images

Chuck Noll (1969–1991)

Super Bowl Wins: 4 (IX, X, XIII, XIV)
Legacy: The Architect of the Steelers Dynasty

Chuck Noll laid the ground for one of the all-time franchises in NFL history. Pittsburgh was not a successful team before Noll’s arrival, but that would change shortly after arriving in 1969.

Noll was the architect of the “Steel Curtain” defense, which included Hall of Famers Mean Joe Greene and Jack Lambert. Offensively, he led Terry Bradshaw, Franco Harris, and Lynn Swann to legendary careers.

Noll’s four Super Bowl championships in six years cemented his reputation as one of the finest coaches in NFL history. His rugged system and talent to find players built a dynasty that still permeates the Steelers today.

Embed from Getty Images

Bill Cowher (1992–2006)

Super Bowl Wins: 1 (XL)
Legacy: Reviving the Steelers’ Identity

Bill Cowher took over a Steelers organization transitioning from its rich history and had an instant effect. He led the team to the playoffs in all of his first six years, showing his ability to construct competitive teams.

Cowher’s Steelers squads were built on toughness—a physical defense, a pounding ground offense, and an aggressive coaching style. While his first Super Bowl appearance (XXX) was a defeat, he eventually won a title in Super Bowl XL, restoring the Steelers’ dominance.

Cowher’s intensity and leadership earned him a renowned place in franchise history and he was recently named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, joining his predecessor Chuck Noll.

Embed from Getty Images

Mike Tomlin (2007–Present)

Super Bowl Wins: 1 (XLIII)
Legacy: A Model of Consistency

Mike Tomlin took over for Bill Cowher as head coach in 2007 and immediately continued the Steelers’ tradition of winning. In just his second season, he led the team to a Super Bowl XLIII title with a heart-stopping last-minute win over the Arizona Cardinals.

Tomlin is given credit for being adaptable, allowing the Steelers to remain competitive despite roster changeover, injuries, and shifting NFL trends. His time in Pittsburgh has made the franchise one of the most stable in sports, with no losing seasons during his tenure.

With multiple division crowns and playoff appearances, Tomlin has demonstrated a skill for sustaining the Steelers’ competitiveness on an annual basis.

Embed from Getty Images

Other notable Steelers coaches

While Noll, Cowher, and Tomlin stand as the most successful, a few other coaches made significant contributions to the Steelers:

  • Walt Kiesling (1939–1942, 1954–1956): Led the Steelers during multiple periods, including stints during World War II.
  • Buddy Parker (1957–1964): Helped modernize the Steelers but fell short of true success.
  • Bill Austin (1966–1968): A Vince Lombardi assistant who failed to produce a winning season prior to Noll’s arrival.

Embed from Getty Images

The Steelers coaching legacy

Few franchises boast a coaching lineage as rich as the Pittsburgh Steelers. From the disciplined dominance of Chuck Noll to Bill Cowher’s fiery leadership and Mike Tomlin’s longevity, each coach has brought their own style while maintaining Pittsburgh’s signature toughness.

The Steelers’ commitment to consistency and culture has made their coaching legacy one of the most respected in professional sports. No matter who takes the reins in the future, Pittsburgh’s winning DNA is sure to continue.

The Steelers’ rich history of coaching has shaped the franchise into one of the most dominant teams in NFL history. Chuck Noll built the dynasty, Bill Cowher revived it, and Mike Tomlin has sustained it. Their leadership, strategy, and ability to inspire players have made Pittsburgh a powerhouse decade after decade.

With the Steelers constantly evolving, fans can expect more great coaching, more unforgettable moments, and—hopefully—more championships in the future.

Throwback Thursday: A history of Steelers head coaches appeared first on Steel City Underground.

Steelers: UDFA updates; Woods replacing Wilson?

The hours and days following the NFL Draft are filled with a flurry of activity for teams, and the Pittsburgh Steelers have been busy. With their 2025 draft class finalized, the Steelers have added several undrafted free agents and are reportedly bringing in at least one player from another team. We look at the latest reports.

Embed from Getty Images

The Woods report

On Tuesday, Ian Rapoport reported on X (formerly Twitter) that the Steelers were signing veteran receiver Robert Woods – last with the Houston Texans – to a one-year, $2 million deal. The report has yet to be confirmed, officially, by the Steelers organization – and this is still a period where rumors abound.

If confirmed, Woods would join a wide receivers group that includes the following players: Calvin Austin, Brandon Johnson, Lance McCutcheon, D.K. Metcalf, Scotty Miller, George Pickens, Ben Skowronek, Roc Taylor, Ke’Shawn Williams, and Roman Wilson.

With Taylor and Williams agreeing to terms with Pittsburgh just two days prior as undrafted rookie free agents, it begs the question if Woods is signing because the Steelers are about to release oft-injured receiver Roman Wilson.

Wilson has seen little time on the field and plenty of time in the training room and sidelined since being drafted in 2024.

Woods enters his 13th season in the league in 2025. During the last two seasons with the Texans, Woods played in 29 games and had 60 receptions for 629 yards (10.5 yards per reception) for just a single touchdown.

The takeaway is that Woods could be an upgrade if Wilson is indeed on his way out, albeit a limited veteran one. Woods could also be a depth addition as the team prepares the training camp roster. Until the Steelers make it official, the status of any receiver currently on the roster remains unclear – even if the move would make sense.

Embed from Getty Images

The UDFA’s who’ve agreed to terms

As officially reported by the Steelers, they have agreed to terms with the following UDFAs:

  • WR Roc Taylor (Memphis)
  • OG Aiden Williams (Minnesota-Duluth)
  • FB D.J. Thomas-Jones (South Alabama)
  • WR Ke’Shawn Williams (Indiana)
  • S Sebastian Castro (Iowa)
  • K Ben Sauls (Pittsburgh)
  • TE J.J. Galbreath (South Dakota)

Castro is an intriguing addition. Projected more as a strong safety in the NFL, the former Hawkeye is physical around the line of scrimmage and helpful in run stoppage. He can also punish underneath receivers and tight ends. With DeShon Elliott, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Miles Killebrew, and Juan Thornhill as the only safeties on the roster, Castro could provide additional depth and be utilized in zone coverage and on special teams.

Minicamp invitees/ attendees

Keeping up with minicamp invitations is tricky. Again, it comes down to accurate reporting versus rumors. Some players are announced via their agents while others are done so through other agencies or their colleges. The following list – shared below – has been loosely confirmed but could change as players and teams look for the best fits.

  • JaVaughn Byrd, WR, NIU
  • Donato Crisanti, LS, Rhode Island
  • Omarion Dollison, WR, JMU
  • Eddie Faulkner IV, S, Slippery Rock
  • Fraser Masin, P, Ole Miss
  • Hollis Mathis, WR, William & Mary
  • Max Hurleman, CB, Notre Dame
  • Nate Matlack, EDGE, Pitt
  • Seth Morgan, QB, New Hampshire
  • Dom Serapiglia, OL, Central Michigan
  • Tommy Smith, WR, Rhode Island
  • Debo Williams, LB, South Carolina (via Aaron Wilson)

 

Steelers: UDFA updates; Woods replacing Wilson? appeared first on Steel City Underground.

Bruener, Black, Kent round out Steelers 2025 draft class

Continuing our 2025 NFL Draft coverage, the Pittsburgh Steelers were active in the later rounds of the draft and picked up an additional interior defensive lineman, a linebacker with Steel City ties, and a cornerback in the 5th and 7th rounds. The additional depth pieces seem more important now – after the draft – with the announcement by the team that veteran Montravius Adams was released and 2024 Draft selection Ryan Watts was leaving football due to the significance of the neck injury he suffered during his rookie year.

Embed from Getty Images

Yahya Black – Round 5, Pick 164

Black, a 6’6″, 336-pound defensive tackle (Iowa Hawkeyes) was described by head coach Mike Tomlin in this way: “Like I’ve been saying throughout the draft process — (Black is) a big chassis. There’s F-150s. He’s an F-350. He’s a big man and is really stout against the run. You can always use a skill set like that, certainly.”

Black (first name is pronounced “why ā” or Y. A.) finished his Iowa career with 117 tackles (14 for a loss), 5.5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and 10 pass defenses. He also played on the Hawkeyes’ PAT and punt blocking unit.

NFL Combine Stats

  • 40-Yard Dash: 5.39 Seconds
  • 10-Yard Split: 1.88 Seconds
  • Vertical Jump: 25.5’’
  • Broad Jump: 8’ 5’’
  • 3-Cone Drill: 7.63 Seconds
  • 20-Yd Shuttle: 4.72 Seconds

With Adams’ release, Black – a brick wall on the defensive line that has a great motor – will join former Iowa teammate Logan Lee, Cameron Heyward, Keeanu Benton, Isaiahh Loudermilk, Dean Lowry, Daniel Ekuale, and Esezi Otomewo in what the Steelers hope will be a rotational group that can be more stout against the run, defend the ends of the line as well as be more disruptive in the trenches.

Embed from Getty Images

Carson Bruener – Round 7, Pick 226

If the last name sounds familiar, you may just be a Steelers fan who’s been around long enough to remember tight end and scout Mark Bruener. Carson is his son, so he has ties to the Steelers. Unlike his father, the former Washington Husky plays on the other side of the ball as a linebacker.

At 6’1″, 227 pounds, Bruener posted 306 tackles (10.5 for a loss), 1.5 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, 5 interceptions, and 14 pass defenses during his collegiate career.

NFL Combine Stats

  • 40-Yard Dash:4.58 Seconds
  • 10-Yard Split: 1.57 Seconds
  • Vertical Jump: 33.5’’
  • Broad Jump: 9’ 11’

The Steelers add Bruener to an inside linebackers group comprised of Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson, Cole Holcomb, Malik Harrison, and Mark Robinson. While Bruener ranked 11th among interior linebackers in athleticism at the Combine, his ability to make plays on the ball in pass defense and special teams contributions give the Steelers an additional weapon on defense.

Embed from Getty Images

Donte Kent – Round 7, Pick 229

Kent, the Harrisburg (Penn.) native played cornerback at Central Michigan. At 5’10, 189 pounds, Kent is suited to play the slot corner position. A four-year starter for the Chippewas, and team captain, Kent has good speed and burst. Better in man coverage than zone, Kent can play outside if needed and is capable in run defense. He also has special teams value as a returner or gunner.

Central Michigan’s Pro Day Stats

  • 40-yard Dash: 4.38 Seconds
  • Vertical Jump: 38.50″
  • Broad Jump: 12′ 3″
  • Bench Press: 14 Reps
  • Shuttle: 4.38 Seconds
  • 3-Cone Drill: 7.15 Seconds

With Watts’ release (Ryan), Kent becomes the next guy who could be utilized at the nickel position in place of Beanie Bishop or Brandin Echols who is better as an outside corner. The Steelers could rotate Kent with safety Juan Thornhill in the slot, as well, but he will likely get snaps with special teams regardless. Danny Smith loves versatile players, and Kent could be his next special teams star.

 

Bruener, Black, Kent round out Steelers 2025 draft class appeared first on Steel City Underground.