March 22, 2026, 1:59 p.m. ET
Despite the Pittsburgh Steelers pulling off one of the strongest free agency hauls in recent memory, their recent power rankings projections do the team little favors.
According to Ralph Vacchiano of Fox Sports, the Steelers‘ 2026 free agency pickups were solid additions — but the questions surrounding the future of Aaron Rodgers leave Pittsburgh at the slightly below-average No. 20 spot.
Kicking off their free agency moves by re-signing Asante Samuel Jr. and linebacker Cole Holcomb, the Steelers went on to trade for star wide receiver Michael Pittman and sign standout cornerback Jamel Dean. Dowdle, who rushed for back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, and safety Jaquan Brisker, who’s one of the best tacklers in the NFL, were underrated moves that vastly improved both sides of the ball.
It’s tough to argue with Vacchiano, with the Steelers’ current quarterback room being led by Will Howard and Mason Rudolph, but the free agency moves made by Pittsburgh will give any signal caller the best chance at success in 2026, contrary to their poor power ranking placement.
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