Steelers Face Turbulent Offseason: Quarterback Dilemma, Coaching Shakeup, and Star Player Uncertainty Dominate 2025 Draft Buzz
The Pittsburgh Steelers are heading into the 2025 offseason with significant challenges and uncertainties looming over their future. Following an underwhelming season, the team is poised for a pivotal reset. A mix of personnel questions, coaching adjustments, and draft implications has left fans and analysts speculating on the franchise’s next steps. Here’s a closer look at the key storylines.
The Steelers’ quarterback situation remains one of the most pressing concerns. Kenny Pickett, who has shown flashes of promise since being drafted in 2022, failed to establish himself as a consistent leader this past season. His struggles in high-pressure moments, coupled with recurring injuries, have raised doubts about his long-term viability as the team’s franchise quarterback.
Adding complexity to the situation, backup Mitch Trubisky is set to hit free agency. While Trubisky offered a steady hand when called upon, the Steelers may opt to look elsewhere for a veteran presence, especially if they pursue a quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft. With a mid-first-round pick, Pittsburgh could be in a position to snag one of the top quarterback prospects, sparking debates about whether they should prioritize the position or address other needs.
Head coach Mike Tomlin, a steady figure in Pittsburgh since 2007, continues to command respect within the organization and across the league. However, the 2024 season brought criticism of his staff, particularly offensive coordinator Matt Canada. The Steelers’ offense ranked near the bottom in points scored and yards gained, prompting widespread calls for a change in offensive leadership.
Reports suggest Canada’s departure is imminent, with the Steelers potentially eyeing fresh, innovative minds to rejuvenate the offense. Names like Ben Johnson from Detroit and Joe Brady from Buffalo have been floated as possible candidates. Whether Tomlin can successfully integrate a new offensive system will be critical to the Steelers’ aspirations in 2025 and beyond.
Another issue clouding Pittsburgh’s future is the uncertainty surrounding star outside linebacker T.J. Watt. The 2021 Defensive Player of the Year remains one of the NFL’s premier pass rushers but dealt with nagging injuries throughout 2024. Additionally, Watt’s massive contract continues to strain the team’s salary cap flexibility.
Speculation has emerged about whether the Steelers might explore trading Watt to stockpile draft picks and alleviate financial pressure. While such a move would be controversial, it could provide Pittsburgh with the resources needed to rebuild other areas of the roster. Meanwhile, Cam Heyward, the team’s veteran defensive lineman, is also nearing the twilight of his career, creating further questions about the defense’s future.
With a mid-tier pick in the first round, the Steelers have a chance to significantly bolster their roster during the 2025 NFL Draft. If they opt against drafting a quarterback, they could target an offensive lineman to solidify protection for whoever takes the reins under center. The team has also been linked to standout wide receivers, as Pittsburgh’s passing attack lacked explosiveness last season.
Defensively, cornerback and linebacker are two areas of need. The Steelers’ secondary struggled against elite quarterbacks, and an infusion of young talent could provide much-needed stability. Additionally, the potential departure of key veterans makes finding defensive replacements a top priority.
The 2025 offseason represents a critical juncture for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Balancing short-term competitiveness with long-term sustainability will be no easy feat. The decisions made by the front office, led by General Manager Omar Khan, will define the team’s trajectory for years to come.
Whether it’s addressing the quarterback situation, restructuring contracts, or navigating the draft, the Steelers face a maze of challenges. Fans will be hoping that the franchise’s leadership, backed by one of the most loyal fan bases in sports, can chart a course back to contention.