The bye week came at a pivotal moment for the Steelers\u2014a chance to regroup, refocus, and recalibrate after an uneven start. With the three quarters of the season looming and the lead in the AFC North, Pittsburgh needs more than just steady play\u2014they need difference-makers.<\/p>\n
Whether it\u2019s veterans looking to reassert their impact or young talent ready to break through, a few key players must rise above the noise and deliver. Here are three Steelers who need to stand out as the team turns the page and gears up for an October run.<\/p>\n
Embed from Getty Images<\/a><\/p>\n Mason McCormick<\/a><\/p>\n Through four games Aaron Rodgers<\/a> has been sacked nine times, which is improving. However, going back to Week 3 against the New England Patriots, Rodgers had been pressured as much as 50% of the game. Surprisingly, the usual suspects, tackles Broderick Jones<\/a> and Troy Fautanu<\/a>, haven\u2019t been the main culprit in Rodgers\u2019 being pressured: most of the pressure has come up the middle, with 2024 fourth round pick Mason McCormick receiving a brunt of the blame.<\/p>\n McCormick\u2019s run blocking improved tremendously in Dublin, Ireland against the Minnesota Vikings. Yet, a key lapse in the game\u2019s opening possession for Pittsburgh say McCormick miss a block and Rodgers instantly sacked.<\/p>\n The remainder of the game was smoother sailing, but for Rodgers to connect on deep passes he will need more time in the pocket for downfield plays to develop. Thus far, McCormick appears to be the weaker link on a young Steelers offensive line that needs to step up their play.<\/p>\n Embed from Getty Images<\/a><\/p>\n Roman Wilson<\/a><\/p>\n Wilson, last year\u2019s third-round draft selection, missed nearly all of the 2024 season due to various injuries and has found himself trying to claw back into receiving playing time in 2025.<\/p>\n With a recent injury to Calvin Austin<\/a> III, the search for a second receiving threat in the Steelers offense is on \u2013 and Wilson may be able to carve out a niche.<\/p>\n It remains to be seen if receivers coach Zach Azzanni<\/a> can develop a young talent, making Wilson the perfect project for a player who needs to step up in the absence of another. If Wilson can translate his talents from his time at Michigan, we could see him on the field more frequently with Austin\u2019s return status currently unknown.<\/p>\n Embed from Getty Images<\/a><\/p>\n