The Pittsburgh Steelers came to terms with Aaron Rodgers on a one-year, $22 million deal earlier this week. Leading up to the agreement, NFL fans were unsure whether Rodgers would return or retire. However, he has made it known that this will be the last year of his storied career. “This is it,” Rodgers told the media on Wednesday . After coming to Pittsburgh to play for Mike Tomlin a season ago, Rodgers will end his career in a full-circle manner, now getting to play for former head coach Mike McCarthy one last time. Together in Green Bay , McCarthy helped Rodgers develop into the player he is today, leading the Packers to a Super Bowl title along the way. Let us know what you think in the comments . Be sure to bookmark Behind the Steel Curtain for all the latest news, breakdowns, and more! Aaron Rodgers embracing mentorship role with Drew Allar, Will Howard NFL insider predicts Steelers will cut Will Howard Michael Pittman Jr recruiting JuJu Smith-Schuster back to Steelers Steelers to try OT Max Iheanachor at multiple positions Antonio Brown goes off on JuJu Smith-Schuster in social media rant
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. has a passion for fishing, which he finds therapeutic and plans to pursue competitively after his football career. Hall of Famer Randy Moss also enjoys fishing as a relaxing escape from the public eye and is featured in a new YouTube series about bass fishing
The Pittsburgh Steelers have put an emphasis on adding to their wide receiver room this offseason. Most notably, trading for former Indianapolis Colts receiver Michael Pittman Jr. on March 9th. After just a few months of being on the team, Pittman is seemingly trying to recruit a fan favorite back to the Steelers. On Tuesday, Pittman posted several photos of himself in a Steelers uniform and enjoying his new home. Former Steeler and current NFL free agent Juju Smith-Schuster commented under the post, to which Pittman had an interesting response. Pittman and Smith-Schuster played together at USC, and it certainly appears as if Pittman would like to reunite by having his collegiate teammate return to Pittsburgh. Smith-Schuster has not played for the Steelers since 2021. His 1,426 yard and eight touchdown 2018 season, in which he captured the team MVP , cemented him as a fan favorite in the city of Pittsburgh. The receiver has played for the New England Patriots and has had several stints with the Kansas City Chiefs , winning Super Bowl LVII. Smith-Schuster hasn’t recorded over 1,000 yards since his infamous 2018 season. In fact, he hasn’t recorded over 350 yards in a season since 2022. His production has declined dramatically, so it comes down to whether the Steelers think they need more receiver depth and if they are willing to reunite with Smith-Schuster at all. At best, Smith-Schuster would be competing for a depth role with Roman Wilson . For now, it remains all speculation, but it is worth noting that Pittman would like to see the 2017 third rounder back in the black and gold. Would you like to see Juju Smith-Schuster back in a Steelers uniform? Join the BTSC community and let us know in the comments below! Steelers to try OT Max Iheanachor at multiple positions Antonio Brown goes off on JuJu Smith-Schuster in social media rant Germie Bernard already impressing Steelers coaches at OTAs Steelers OT Troy Fautanu makes feelings clear on potential position change Steelers QB Will Howard surpasses Mason Rudolph to begin OTAs
The Pittsburgh Steelers have lacked any depth at the wide receiver position for the last several years. With the likes of Van Jefferson , Scotty Miller , Allen Robinson , and Marquez Valdes-Scantling all getting notable snaps in recent memory, Pittsburgh’s receiving corps has rightfully been the butt of many jokes. The Steelers finally addressed their lack of pass-catchers this offseason, trading for Michael Pittman and drafting Germie Bernard out of Alabama in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio was asked about Bernard on Tuesday and raved about his preparation. “He has risen to that challenge with great study habits outside of the building in addition to what he is doing daily,” Angelichio said via Nick Farabaugh . Angelichio also added they feel the confidence to “push the envelope” with Bernard early on. Bernard has a real chance to be the No.3 receiver as the team’s starting slot receiver, with his competition boiling down to third-year receiver Roman Wilson . Ben Skowronek will get a roster spot as the team’s special teams ace, but won’t be called upon as a receiver at anything resembling a high clip. Considering what we’ve seen from Wilson in his first two years, the No. 3 spot feels like Bernard’s to lose. Let us know what you think in the comments . Be sure to bookmark Behind the Steel Curtain for all the latest news, breakdowns, and more! Steelers OT Troy Fautanu makes feelings clear on potential position change Steelers QB Will Howard surpasses Mason Rudolph to begin OTAs Steelers make big changes on offensive line to begin OTAs Steelers rookie changes jersey number ahead of OTAs The good and bad with Aaron Rodgers in 2026
The Colts built a high-powered offense last season by avoiding reliance on one player to carry the load. Instead, they leaned on a deep group of skill players that kept defenses guessing about where the ball was going on every play. As they got deeper into the season, they realized that Alec Pierce , Tyler Warren , and Jonathan Taylor were the true focal points of the offense. When there was a big play to be dialed up, the ball was normally going to go there way. While I’ve been critical of Michael Pittman Jr. over the years, his role in the offense is still important. He seldomly created big plays after the catch, he didn’t lift the coverage of a defense with speed, and he didn’t separate like some of the best in the league did. But what he did have was reliability. He could run rudimentary routes and you could trust that he would catch it. Over time, he became a lot tougher in the run game and could be relied on to execute difficult blocking assignments. If he was covered he could still make a play on the ball with his size. It was not worth the contract or a potential extension, but it did offer the Colts some much needed reliability as a Z WR. Now that spot becomes awfully bare heading into to OTA’s and training camp. The company line seems to be “We love Josh Downs and think he needs the ball more.” I don’t deny that the Colts love Josh Downs— and maybe with the resurgence of the tiny WR, they believe they can use him similar to how Klint Kubiak and the Seahawks have used Jaxon Smith Njigba . I have my doubts. But more on that later. THE SCHEMATIC ADVANTAGE OF HAVING A DEEP WR CORE If you don’t have one of the elite WR’s in the game on your roster, then you better have a LOT of good WRs. If you can keep defenses guessing on where the ball is going to go, it forces them to defend every blade of grass. As we saw earlier in the year, sometimes that can be just as effective as having the dominant player. This is a good example of when that does NOT happen. The Colts are running a Sail concept. A sail concept is a vertical stretch concept where you’re attempting to create a hi/lo on a defender. Daniel Jones is expecting that nickel defender to match Michael Pittman vertical and create space for Tyler Warren on the Sail route (modified corner route). I wont speculate here but Michael Pittman is either not running this route at full speed, or is not capable of running this route at a speed fast enough to apply pressure on that nickel defender. Either way, it is bad. What worries me about the Colts heading into next season is what happens when teams can do things like that. Ashton Dulin can play that specific role, but will teams really respect his ability to be a viable option in a progression? Do the Colts think he can do that after sitting on the bottom of the depth chart for numerous years now? Can Nick Westbrook-Ikhine be that guy? Can 7th round pick Deion Burks be that guy? What if there’s an injury at WR? The Colts need to improve the depth there but it’s not too late either. WHO MIGHT FIT THE COLTS There’s been a lot of Deebo Samuel smoke. I do not believe the Colts will look in that direction, personally. Deebo, at this stage in his career, is a gadget piece to an offense. You want to get the ball in his hands, but he’s not a guy who will fit this system in particular. Two names that are really interesting. First, Keenan Allen . Keenan has spent time with Shane Steichen in his past and put up a quiet 81 catch sub 800 yard season with the Chargers. Do I think he can replicate that in Indy? No. But could he be a piece that the Colts explore in training camp and see if he can add some depth to the room? Perhaps. The second is Noah Brown . He’s 30 years old but had some really underrated season with the Cowboys a couple years ago. He’s battled some injuries last year, so that’s a bit of an unknown, but he has some traits I think the Colts like. This is from 2022, but a sequence I could see Shane Steichen want
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Aaron Rodgers is officially back in the building. The four-time NFL MVP signed his name on the dotted line on May 18 , marking his return to the Pittsburgh Steelers for a 22nd season in the league. It will be his second in Pittsburgh, and his teammates are preparing for another run with the future Hall of Fame quarterback. Rodgers joined the team for organized team activities (OTAs) after signing the deal, sparking reaction from some of his teammates – new and old. "It can only be good," Chris Boswell said of Rodgers' impact on the team . "Having a guy like that in the building can only help you. I don't think it'll ever hurt you. For him to come back early right now and be around the guys, you know obviously one of his previous coaches, it's only positive for sure." Boswell did say he was surprised to see Rodgers, adding he had no insight about the quarterback's return to the practice field. That wasn't unique to just Boswell either. Michael Pittman Jr. , who was acquired via trade from the Indianapolis Colts in March , also had no inside information from Rodgers. "He never told me anything," Pittman said of when he found out about the Rodgers' signing. "I learned from Twitter before he told me." AARON RODGERS STATS: Looking back at veteran QB's performance as he returns to Steelers Quarterback Aaron Rodgers, drafted 24th overall by the Green Bay Packers, poses with family and friends during the 2005 NFL Draft at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City on April 23, 2005. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell presents the Super Bowl MVP trophy to Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers at a news conference on Feb. 7, 2011 in Dallas, Texas. The Packers defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-25 to win Super Bowl 45. Aaron Rodgers celebrates the Super Bowl 45 title with Green Bay Packer fans during a Return to Titletown Celebration on Feb. 8, 2011 at Lambeau Field. Aaron Rodgers is shown with back up quarterbacks Tim Boyle (left) and Jordan Love during the team's training camp in Green Bay, Wisconsin, on Aug. 24, 2020. Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers fumbles as he is hit by the Houston Texans' Will Anderson Jr. The Texans' Sheldon Rankins (90) returned the fumble for a touchdown as Houston went on to a 30-6 wild-card playoff win at Acrisure Stadium on Jan. 12, 2026. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers, drafted 24th overall by the Green Bay Packers, poses with family and friends during the 2005 NFL Draft at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City on April 23, 2005. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell presents the Super Bowl MVP trophy to Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers at a news conference on Feb. 7, 2011 in Dallas, Texas. The Packers defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-25 to win Super Bowl 45. Aaron Rodgers celebrates the Super Bowl 45 title with Green Bay Packer fans during a Return to Titletown Celebration on Feb. 8, 2011 at Lambeau Field. Aaron Rodgers is shown with back up quarterbacks Tim Boyle (left) and Jordan Love during the team's training camp in Green Bay, Wisconsin, on Aug. 24, 2020. Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers fumbles as he is hit by the Houston Texans' Will Anderson Jr. The Texans' Sheldon Rankins (90) returned the fumble for a touchdown as Houston went on to a 30-6 wild-card playoff win at Acrisure Stadium on Jan. 12, 2026. Pittman has experience with veteran quarterbacks, pointing to his time with Philip Rivers in Indianapolis. Still, the receiver knows that Rodgers will have his own preferences and that will be an adjustment. He noted that Rodgers will let players know if something isn't done right and was asked if he was speaking from experience. “It didn’t happen to me specifically yet, but I’ve seen it from watching games and stuff,” Pittman said with a laugh, via the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette . “He’s just a vet – a super vet quarterback. So he knows what he likes and doesn’t like. You guys have watched him play, how if you’re not doing what [... truncated ...]
Quarterback Aaron Rodgers officially re-signed with the Steelers on Monday, just as the team began its OTAs. When it comes to Rodgers’ pass-catchers, Pittsburgh traded for Michael Pittman earlier this offseason. The two started to get acquainted weeks ago, when Pittman got in some throws with the QB. But he found out Rodgers was officially coming back much like the rest of us. “I found out from Twitter ,” Pittman said Monday, via Mark Kaboly of the Pat McAfee Show. Pittman is still getting familiar with Rodgers’ style as a QB, but the receiver knows Rodgers isn’t afraid to let a teammate know when he doesn’t like something. “It didn’t happen to me specifically yet, but I’ve seen it from watching games and stuff ,” Pittman said with a laugh, via Chris Adamski of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review . “He’s just a vet — a super vet quarterback. So he knows what he likes and doesn’t like. You guys have watched him [play, how if you’re not doing what you’re supposed to do, he’s going to let you know — which is good. I just think it’s good to have that leadership.” Even with Rodgers’ experience, Pittman knows he and the QB have some work to do to get on the same page. “ This is the first day ,” Pittman said, via Brian Batko of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette , “so we have from now up until that first game, and we’re gonna get as many reps as possible.”
Quarterback Aaron Rodgers officially re-signed with the Steelers on Monday, just as the team began its OTAs. When it comes to Rodgers’ pass-catchers, Pittsburgh traded for Michael Pittman earlier this offseason. The two started to get acquainted weeks ago, when Pittman got in some throws with the QB. But he found out Rodgers was officially coming back much like the rest of us. “I found out from Twitter ,” Pittman said Monday, via Mark Kaboly of the Pat McAfee Show. Pittman is still getting familiar with Rodgers’ style as a QB, but the receiver knows Rodgers isn’t afraid to let a teammate know when he doesn’t like something. “It didn’t happen to me specifically yet, but I’ve seen it from watching games and stuff ,” Pittman said with a laugh, via Chris Adamski of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review . “He’s just a vet — a super vet quarterback. So he knows what he likes and doesn’t like. You guys have watched him [play, how if you’re not doing what you’re supposed to do, he’s going to let you know — which is good. I just think it’s good to have that leadership.” Even with Rodgers’ experience, Pittman knows he and the QB have some work to do to get on the same page. “ This is the first day ,” Pittman said, via Brian Batko of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette , “so we have from now up until that first game, and we're gonna get as many reps as possible.”
Aaron Rodgers is officially back with the Pittsburgh Steelers. After months of consternation about his future, in the end, all it took was a report that the Steelers were growing weary of Rodgers “will he, won’t he” routine for him to come to the party, sign his one-year deal, and cement that he’s playing in 2026. Funny how that works. This puts the whole Rodgers mess to bed, at least for another season. Now the Steelers can move ahead with some sort of certainty at the quarterback position after staring down the gun of potentially needing to start Mason Rudolph , Will Howard , or rookie Drew Allar — functionally ending the team’s season before it begins. The question now pivots to what is the ceiling of this team with Rodgers at the helm, and could this end up being a massive mistake? The question of whether or not this is the correct move is couched wholly in one incontrovertible fact: Every NFL team needs to rebuild eventually. It’s a reality the Steelers have been staving off since Ben Roethlisberger ’s retirement following the 2021 season, and to their credit, the organization has been competitive — but there’s also been a ceiling when it comes to quarterback. Whether it was Kenny Pickett , Russell Wilson , Justin Fields , or Aaron Rodgers, the team has been a consistent playoff team, but that’s where the success ends. The Steelers have been bounced in the Wild Card round during their last five playoff appearances, and you need to go back to 2017 to find the last time Pittsburgh made it out of the opening round. With the addition of Michael Pittman Jr. there’s no question this is the best receiving corps the team has had in years, and with Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle the team has a fascinating one-two punch at running back for this upcoming season. Now it’s time to talk brass tacks: Is this new-look Steelers team demonstrably better for bringing back Aaron Rodgers, and what is their ceiling? By Mark Schofield After months of speculation, the Pittsburgh Steelers have their quarterback for the 2026 season. Aaron Rodgers ended that speculation, agreeing to terms on a one-year deal with the Steelers over this past weekend. Rodgers is already back at work, having been spotted inside the facility as the team opens OTAs this Monday morning. But how much does Rodgers move the needle for the Steelers at this point in his career? Based on last season, probably not much. While Rodgers represented arguably the best option for the Steelers at the most important position in the game, that is also a relative concept. After all, beyond Rodgers the Steelers were looking at second-year quarterback Will Howard, rookie Drew Allar, or longtime backup Mason Rudolph. Given that, Rodgers is the best option. But this is still a quarterback that posted an Adjusted Net Yards per Attempt of 6.3 last year – ranking him 18th among qualified quarterbacks in the NFL – with a QBR of 44.4, which ranked him 27th in the league. When you look at Quarterback Efficiency , a metric that compares both Expected Points Added per Pass and Completion Percentage over Expectation, you see the rest of the picture. Here is that chart, courtesy of RBSDM.com : Last year Rodgers was, at best, a league-average quarterback. How much does a league-average quarterback, one year older, move the needle for the Steelers? Probably not much, in a crowded AFC field and in particular a difficult AFC North, with the Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals expected to be tough opponents this year, and the Cleveland Browns coming off a very impressive offseason. What could be a saving grace for the Steelers is that the AFC North is paired with the NFC South this year for non-conference games, which could help their record a bit. But one particular stretch of their schedule stands out: A run following their bye week, which sees Pittsburgh play at Cincinnati, at Philadelphia , against Denver on a short week, against Houston, at Jacksonville , and against Baltimore. Those six
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As my eyes grew as tired as my ears listening to Dan Orlovsky talk about how every team will win 11 games in 2026, I sat and predicted every game on the 2026 slate immediately following the schedule release. I then proceeded to lead Slippery Rock to a 103-7 win over NC State in my College Football 26 online dynasty as everyone else in the league shook in their boots like a sinner on judgement day. Video game dominance aside, I take this exercise way too seriously and try to get it as accurate as possible. Obviously there will be some swings and misses, but life is about taking chances because we’re all going to die one day and so will everyone we love, so let’s do this. Now, this comes with the ever-growing caveat that Joe Burrow stays healthy. However, if he stubs his toe on the side of his bed and misses 11 games, this goes out the window. When Burrow is under center, though, the Bengals win and are unquestionably one of the three best offenses in football. The defensive additions of Boye Mafe and Bryan Cook should also make their defense at least look like an NFL defense rather than doing it best impression of the UMass Minutemen every week. It’s an endless cycle with how people outside of Pittsburgh cover the Steelers. Predict that they will lose 12 games (hello again, Mr. Orlovsky) They win 10 games They get better in the offseason Cycle repeats The Steelers added the likes of Michael Pittman , Rico Dowdle , Jamel Dean , and Jaquan Brisker to their roster that won 10 games in 2025. Aaron Rodgers actually having a good group of pass-catchers to throw to, as well as a defense whose philosophies aren’t stuck in 1999 anymore will get Pittsburgh to 11 wins and the top wild card spot. If Lamar Jackson is healthy and able to actually run the ball, then Baltimore should be a playoff team. Admittedly, I don’t love their defense or their pass-catchers offensively. but a healthy Lamar has equaled playoff berths. We’ll see if Jesse Minter, Declan Doyle, and Anthony Weaver can get the job done in Year One. Choosing between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson is like Sophie’s Choice , but in reverse. They’re actually going to play one or both of these guys at quarterback, and it’s going to be like watching the Hindenburg disaster every Sunday – which, to be fair, I guess it’s been that bad for a while now. Bailey Zappe and Dorian Thompson-Robinson, anyone? They drafted well for the second straight year, but it won’t matter. They can still get a haul for Myles Garrett , and they absolutely should go that route. Everyone is concerned about the roster. The Bills’ roster stinks every year, and they consistently win 11, 12, 13 games. Now, if you want to say 13 is a little rich with the schedule they face, fine. But their offense will be better with D.J. Moore to complement James Cook in the run game. Defensively, they will be better under Jim Leonhard by default – go back watch that Broncos game where Sean McDermott made Bo Nix look like Steve Young. Last time I checked, the Bills still have Josh Allen – they’ll be fine. They face the same question they’ve faced for half a decade now – is this finally the year? I spent all of 2025 saying that the schedule excuse is a bogus one to make against the Patriots. They didn’t just beat the bad teams they faced, they beat the hell out of them, and Drake Maye is a top 10 quarterback in the league. If they get A.J. Brown , maybe this number jumps up a game or two, but the Dianna Russini shaped cloud over the team is one that is gonna rain on them all season, and that’s a real distraction. That will play a much larger role in their Super Bowl hangover than the schedule they face. Geno Smith Part II: Electric Boogaloo. With Frank Reich calling the offense. Jesus wept. At least Breece Hall can wipe his tears with hundred-dollar bills when the offense ranks 29th in EPA. Mark Duper and Mark Clayton at their current ages might give the Dolphins better production at receiver than their current r
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Aaron Rodgers is indeed coming back for a 22nd season in the NFL . The future Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback will return to the Pittsburgh Steelers on a one-year contract, according to CBS Sports Lead NFL Insider Jonathan Jones . The deal includes $22 million guaranteed and is worth up to $25 million, per NFL Media . Rodgers is expected to participate when the team kicks off its organized team activities (OTAs) on Monday. The Steelers, who recently placed the rare right of first refusal tender on Rodgers, were optimistic he would eventually join them, despite it taking him until May to formally decide. Rodgers, 42, signed a one-year deal with the Steelers last season following a tumultuous two years with the Jets . During his first season in Pittsburgh, Rodgers proved he is still capable of playing at a high level. He went 10-7 as Pittsburgh's starting quarterback (including the postseason) while helping the Steelers win their first division title since 2020. This Steelers team is vastly different. For starters, there's a new coach in town: Mike McCarthy, who won a Super Bowl with Rodgers in 2010. McCarthy replaces Mike Tomlin, who stepped down one day after Pittsburgh's season-ending loss to the Texans in the AFC wild card round. Pittsburgh also underwent some notable roster turnover. Gone is team MVP Kenneth Gainwell (and a Rodgers favorite) after the veteran running back signed with the Buccaneers in free agency. The Steelers replaced him with Rico Dowdle , who just compiled his second-straight 1,000-yard rushing season. The Steelers acquired former Colts receiver Michael Pittman and rookie second-round pick Germie Bernard , who was Alabama's leading receiver each of the past two seasons. Both players should make life infinitely easier for Rodgers and DK Metcalf in the quest to limit double teams in pass coverage. During the draft, the Steelers added another quarterback into the mix when they selected former Penn State quarterback Drew Allar in the third round. Pittsburgh's quarterback room, for now, also consists of 2025 sixth-round pick Will Howard and veteran Mason Rudolph . Despite Pittsburgh's lack of weaponry at receiver last season (a weakness further magnified by Metcalf's two-game suspension), Rodgers played well enough to help the Steelers go 10-7 during the regular season. He opened the season with a four-touchdown performance while leading Pittsburgh to a win over his former team, the Jets. Rodgers ended the regular season by throwing the game-winning touchdown pass to Calvin Austin III against the Ravens that ultimately sealed a division title and playoff spot for Pittsburgh. Rodgers' lowlights last year included a Week 13 loss to the Bills , during which he sustained at least three fractures in his non-throwing (left) wrist. Despite the injury, Rodgers missed just one game. The injury appeared to make Rodgers even more wary of getting hit, leading to quicker passes and questions about his reluctance to let Myles Garrett break the single-season sack record at his expense during Pittsburgh's Week 17 loss in Cleveland. Rodgers passed former teammate Brett Favre for fourth all-time in touchdown passes. Rodgers is just 13 touchdown passes away from passing Peyton Manning for third on the all-time list. He is fifth all-time with 66,274 passing yards, which is 5,564 yards behind Favre, who is fourth all-time. Rodgers won four MVP awards from 2011-21 while cementing his status as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all-time. He has yet to get back to a Super Bowl, however, which is the biggest blemish in an otherwise remarkable career. In 2026, Rodgers will try to climb the mountaintop once again
Former NFL quarterback turned ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky doesn’t appear to be buying into any hype surrounding the revamped Pittsburgh Steelers heading into the 2026 season. During ESPN’s NFL schedule release coverage, Orlovsky gave a brutally pessimistic outlook on Pittsburgh’s chances this season, particularly once the schedule turns difficult after the bye week. “Find a win after the bye week,” Orlovsky said. He then doubled down with an even harsher assessment of the Steelers’ late-season stretch. “Find a win after the bye week. If you’re Pittsburgh, find the win. Cincy? You’re not beating Cincy at Cincy. You’re not beating Philly at Philly. You’re not beating Denver . You’re not beating Houston . You’re not beating Jacksonville . You’re not beating Baltimore. I understand seven of their first nine are non-playoff teams, but I sit here and look at this Steelers team, and we don’t know who they’re gonna be under Mike McCarthy and if Aaron’s gonna be the guy.” Orlovsky continued by predicting the Steelers could be headed toward one of their worst seasons in decades. “I continuously believe he will. Five, six wins… They’ve had two top 10 picks since 1990. It’s not normal. But if you go into that bye week and you don’t have a banked set of wins, that’s a brutal final nine… I don’t see easy wins early on. I don’t see any wins late.” This also isn’t the first time Orlovsky has gone out on a limb with a bleak prediction involving Pittsburgh. During last year’s schedule release, he famously said, “I think they’re looking at 0-6 with Mason,” referring to quarterback Mason Rudolph . That prediction obviously didn’t come close to materializing – and was before Aaron Rodgers officially entered the fold. The Steelers enter 2026 with numerous changes and uncertainty, yet also havelegitimate reasons for optimism. New head coach Mike McCarthy takes over as the franchise looks to modernize its offense. Pittsburgh also added veteran playmakers Michael Pittman Jr. and Rico Dowdle this offseason, while most draft analysts viewed the team’s rookie class favorably. Still, Orlovsky clearly believes the combination of a brutal second-half schedule, a new coaching staff, and questions surrounding Rodgers’ level of play could make for a rough year in Pittsburgh. Whether that prediction proves accurate or becomes another cold take remains to be seen, but Orlovsky certainly isn’t afraid to stake out an unpopular position when it comes to the Steelers. Let us know what you think in the comments . Be sure to bookmark Behind the Steel Curtain for all the latest news, breakdowns, and more! Jalen Hurts addresses Steelers QB situation in schedule release video Mike Tomlin to return to Pittsburgh in Week 13 Steelers predicted to trade T.J. Watt to ensure Nick Herbig extension Steelers schedule 2026: Tracking all the leaks and rumors Steelers to play on Black Friday, per report
Indianapolis Colts second-year tight end Tyler Warren was very impressive in his first year in the NFL and finished as the TE6 in half-PPR scoring with 76 catches on his 112 targets for 817 yards and four touchdowns in 17 games played. The 23-year-old out of Penn State was the 14th overall pick in last year's draft, and he did not disappoint as the Colts finally appear to have found a long-term, high-end pass-catching option at the position. Most of Warren's production in 2025 came in the first half of the season, as he averaged 61.7 receiving yards in his first 10 NFL games before falling to 28.6 yards in his last seven games. It didn't help that starting quarterback Daniel Jones (Achilles) suffered a season-ending injury late in the year. With Jones expected to return in 2026 after signing a two-year extension, it cements Warren in as a top-five dynasty TE, especially since the Colts traded away receiver Michael Pittman Jr. to the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ 2026 schedule is here, and it’s time for another yearly tradition: going game by game and picking every contest on the Steelers’ slate. Yes, this is not anything close to a scientific exercise, especially with so many changes bound to happen between now and September (I am predicting these games with the assumption Aaron Rodgers signs). But it’s fun to do, and it sets a baseline of sorts for future predictions. Our friends at FanDuel have the Steelers over/under set at 7.5 wins. Will they top that in 2026? Let’s dive in: The Steelers have won the last five meetings against Atlanta — and the Falcons have never won in Pittsburgh. Historical trends aside, the Falcons are still in quarterback purgatory, and the Steelers should be fired up with a rare home opener and new head coach. Last year, the Steelers needed a whopping five defensive turnovers to defeat New England by one touchdown. And the Patriots only improved throughout 2025 en route to a Super Bowl appearance — and at this point in 2026, they might’ve added AJ Brown . This early in the season, the usually injury-bitten Bengals should still be a threat, especially with the addition of elite nose tackle Dexter Lawrence . Still, that defense has a lot of holes, and the Steelers are at home. Times might change under Mike McCarthy, but this is a loss many are penciling in already. The Steelers have struggled to win in Cleveland lately, and the Thursday Night Football setting should only up the slop factor. I’m not bullish on the Colts, even with a healthy Daniel Jones , to repeat their unexpected success from the first half of 2025. Michael Pittman Jr. gets a petty game ball — are we still doing those? — against his former team. The Buccaneers are still a dangerous team, but the wheels fell off in 2025, headlined by a disappointing season from quarterback Baker Mayfield . I don’t have a ton of faith in Todd Bowles to right the pirate ship this year. It’s an international game, so expect TNF levels of wackiness, and maybe the Saints get a force multiplier playing the land of the fleur-de-lis. Still, while I’m cautiously optimistic in the offense New Orleans has put together, this seems like a winnable game for Pittsburgh. Playing in a divisional game the week after a trip to Europe isn’t ideal, but the good news is that the Browns haven’t won a regular season game in Pittsburgh since 2003. I doubt Yinzer Mike McCarthy wants that streak to break in the first year under his watch. Tough to lose this one. This marks the start of a stretch of non-1 p.m. kickoffs for Pittsburgh. I also think it’ll be a win. The Steelers are able to sweep the Bengals, this time thanks to an extra week of rest. Here’s another historical stat: The Steelers haven’t won in Philadelphia since 1965. I don’t think anything changes here, as the Steelers run into what should still be a tough team in the trenches with plenty of talent on both sides of the ball. After a somewhat easy start to the schedule, the Steelers encounter their first losing streak of the year against the Broncos after Thanksgiving. Denver has an efficient offense and a fierce defense that should challenge Pittsburgh’s young offensive line and aging quarterback. Copy and paste what I said about the Broncos defense, but to an even greater degree when it comes to the Texans. Case in point: This group ate Aaron Rodgers and co. alive in the NFL Playoffs in January. Houston’s offense is a potential weak point, but the addition of David Montgomery and another offensive line revamp might result in some improvements. Does the Steelers’ historical Monday Night Football success continue with a new Mike? For now, I think it will. The Jaguars are a better team than many give them credit for, but I also think this Steelers team has improved more than some in the national media would believe. Pittsburgh breaks a three-game skid with a much-needed win. The Steelers come back down to earth with a loss to the Rave
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The Steelers’ 2026 schedule was announced Thursday night. And in true NFL fashion, the whole thing was leaked well before the league made it official. But now, it’s time for another yearly tradition: With the schedule out, let’s go game by game, predicting the wins and losses. Yes, this is not anything close to a scientific exercise, especially with so many changes bound to happen between now and September (I am predicting these games with the assumption Aaron Rodgers signs). But it’s fun to do, and it sets a baseline of sorts for future predictions. Let’s dive in: The Steelers have won the last five meetings against Atlanta — and the Falcons have never won in Pittsburgh. Historical trends aside, the Falcons are still in quarterback purgatory, and the Steelers should be fired up with a rare home opener and new head coach. Last year, the Steelers needed a whopping five defensive turnovers to defeat New England by one touchdown. And the Patriots only improved throughout 2025 en route to a Super Bowl appearance — and at this point in 2026, they might’ve added AJ Brown . This early in the season, the usually injury-bitten Bengals should still be a threat, especially with the addition of elite nose tackle Dexter Lawrence . Still, that defense has a lot of holes, and the Steelers are at home. Times might change under Mike McCarthy, but this is a loss many are penciling in already. The Steelers have struggled to win in Cleveland lately, and the Thursday Night Football setting should only up the slop factor. I’m not bullish on the Colts, even with a healthy Daniel Jones , to repeat their unexpected success from the first half of 2025. Michael Pittman Jr. gets a petty game ball — are we still doing those? — against his former team. The Buccaneers are still a dangerous team, but the wheels fell off in 2025, headlined by a disappointing season from quarterback Baker Mayfield . I don’t have a ton of faith in Todd Bowles to right the pirate ship this year. It’s an international game, so expect TNF levels of wackiness, and maybe the Saints get a force multiplier playing the land of the fleur-de-lis. Still, while I’m cautiously optimistic in the offense New Orleans has put together, this seems like a winnable game for Pittsburgh. Playing in a divisional game the week after a trip to Europe isn’t ideal, but the good news is that the Browns haven’t won a regular season game in Pittsburgh since 2003. I doubt Yinzer Mike McCarthy wants that streak to break in the first year under his watch. Tough to lose this one. This marks the start of a stretch of non-1 p.m. kickoffs for Pittsburgh. I also think it’ll be a win. The Steelers are able to sweep the Bengals, this time thanks to an extra week of rest. Here’s another historical stat: The Steelers haven’t won in Philadelphia since 1965. I don’t think anything changes here, as the Steelers run into what should still be a tough team in the trenches with plenty of talent on both sides of the ball. After a somewhat easy start to the schedule, the Steelers encounter their first losing streak of the year against the Broncos after Thanksgiving. Denver has an efficient offense and a fierce defense that should challenge Pittsburgh’s young offensive line and aging quarterback. Copy and paste what I said about the Broncos defense, but to an even greater degree when it comes to the Texans. Case in point: This group ate Aaron Rodgers and co. alive in the NFL Playoffs in January. Houston’s offense is a potential weak point, but the addition of David Montgomery and another offensive line revamp might result in some improvements. Does the Steelers’ historical Monday Night Football success continue with a new Mike? For now, I think it will. The Jaguars are a better team than many give them credit for, but I also think this Steelers team has improved more than some in the national media would believe. Pittsburgh breaks a three-game skid with a much-needed win. The Steelers come back down to earth wi
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Josh Downs' target volume is expected to increase in 2026 following the offseason trade of Michael Pittman Jr., giving him buy-low appeal for dynasty managers despite a diminished role in 2025
Alec Pierce is recovering from ankle surgery but is expected to be ready for the 2026 season after signing a four-year, $114 million contract. He had a career-best 2025 season with 47 catches for 1,003 yards and six touchdowns, and will step into a WR1 role for the Colts
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. will get a fresh start in 2026 following an offseason trade. Dealt from the Colts to the Steelers, Pittman will slot in as a starting wide receiver opposite DK Metcalf next year. He offers a major upgrade for the Steelers, who endured a rough season of Calvin Austin III as their No. 2 receiver last year. Pittman was impressive when quarterback Daniel Jones (Achilles) was healthy, averaging 11.4 fantasy points per game (half-PPR) and ranking as the overall WR8. However, his production took a hit when Jones was ruled out for the season. Therein lies the biggest question mark for Pittman in 2026. We still don't know who his quarterback will be in Pittsburgh. An Aaron Rodgers return seems probable, but nothing is imminent. Assuming Rodgers does return to the Steelers, he could support top-25 finishes from both Metcalf and Pittman. We're encouraged by Pittman's new opportunity, as the Steelers' decision to trade for him shows how much they want to get him involved on offense. He currently ranks as the WR52 in RotoBaller's dynasty rankings, so managers who have higher expectations could opt to buy low on Pittman this offseason
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Data comes from cached Sleeper and KTC snapshots. Values update when the sync jobs run.
