June 18, 2026, 9:40 a.m. ET
The Pittsburgh Steelers have had no problem making it to the postseason in recent years, but they have certainly had trouble winning once they get there – posting an 0-7 record in their last seven playoff games.
The Steelers made a coaching change over the course of the offseason, with 19-year veteran coach Mike Tomlin stepping down and former Super Bowl Champion and Pittsburgh native Mike McCarthy being hired as the new head coach. But what can the Steelers do under new leadership to change their postseason luck?
Adapt to regime change
Ultimately, if Tomlin hadn’t stepped down, he likely would have lost his job one way or another, and the Steelers likely would not have won any postseason games until it happened. The franchise needed a change, and McCarthy has a resume to suggest he’s the right man for the job. He has a Super Bowl title to his name and won in the postseason as recently as 2022, and the roster should put in the effort to adapt to his changes if they want success.
Aaron Rodgers must excel
Rodgers is in the twilight of his career and will take the field for the final time in 2026. He was impressive enough during his first season with the Steelers last year, and he helped get them to the postseason. But he is another year older, and elite quarterback play can often be the difference between playoff success and a Wild Card Round exit. He will undoubtedly be the starting option this season, and needs to make his last year in the league count if the Steelers want playoff wins.
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