It has been an offseason to remember for the Pittsburgh Steelers, as they have not only undergone major changes at the head coach position but also significant roster reconstruction. They’ve addressed major needs at wide receiver, offensive line, defensive line, cornerback, and safety. Despite not having Aaron Rodgers officially re-signed (all signs point to this happening relatively soon), the roster is much improved over last season, but there’s always room to add more. In what is already a grueling and taxing 17-game schedule, having good depth at all positions is critical, as it will matter most in the second half of games.
#1: Depth Beyond A Third Wide Receiver
When comparing Pittsburgh’s starting wideouts between 2025 and 2026, the difference is substantial. DK Metcalf previously headlined an underwhelming unit, but now he is complemented by Michael Pittman Jr. and rookie draft pick Germie Bernard. The improvement cannot be stressed enough, but beyond those three, you still have a room in need of adequate pass catchers. Roman Wilson hasn’t yet lived to his potential, Ben Skowronek is mostly known for gunning down returnees, and Kaden Wetjen will primarily work with special teams as a punt and kickoff returner. There’s something to be said about having a fourth and fifth capable receiver, as injuries can quickly derail things. The deepest NFL teams at wide receiver usually consist of guys who can play up the pecking order when relied upon. Whether it’s through free agency or post-training camp roster cutdowns around the league, grabbing a couple more to better support Rodgers and offensive play-caller Mike McCarthy certainly won’t hurt.
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#2: A Rotational Inside Linebacker Addition
Patrick Queen, Cole Holecomb, Malik Harrison, and Payton Willson make up the insider linebacking unit. However, questions remain, such as Harrison being a potential cap casualty, Queen quelling inconsistencies, and what Holecomb has left in the tank another year removed from his knee injury. It’s a middle-of-the-pack group that is either good or bad, but much better than the teams behind them. Surprisingly, the Steelers did not draft one this year, signaling confidence and optimism in what they have. Except Wilson (who is their best), it’s a bit of a gamble to expect the rest to bounce back if they aren’t able to cover the middle of the field. Nonetheless, adding another piece here would help offset Queen and Wilson from taking on too much, and allow everyone to play to their exact strengths under new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, as 2025 showed them taking a step back.
When healthy, Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington form a rock-solid tight end duo in the red zone, in space, and as blockers. Expect both of them to be more involved with the game plan on offense under McCarthy, as last season was a disappointment target-wise for what was supposed to be tight-end heavy under the previous offensive coordinator, Arthur Smith. Jonnu Smith, acquired in the trade with the Miami Dolphins, is no longer with the team, so that leaves the third tight end spot up for grabs. Lake McRee and J.J. Galbreath were both undrafted free agents in this year’s draft and last year’s, but largely remain unproven. A veteran option who excels at blocking and is competent as a pass catcher when given that rare target is what you look for. If Pittsburgh wants to run the ball effectively and keep its quarterback upright, having another blocker makes for a wise investment in a tough division.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: 3 Roster Positions That Steelers Could Use More Depth