Steelers Biggest Questions Heading Into The Offseason

Offensive Line

Sep 11, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) is helped to his feet by lineman Marcus Gilbert (77) after being sacked by Baltimore Ravens linebacker Elvis Dumervil (58) at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports

The offensive line is far from in peril.  Props must be given to new offensive line coach Mike Munchak for improving the line to some extent.  Some players came into their own over the year, some continued their downward spiral.  Collectively, the made some gains but still need significant improvements.

As a group, they stayed healthy – which is a huge win for Munchak already.  I don’t think it’s a coincidence that Munchak’s lead the way to a healthy line.  Workouts, preparation, body maintenance are all things that influence longevity, and the positional coach can influence those things.

David DeCastro is the most improved of the line.  His pulling was spectacular this season.  Kelvin Beachum and Maurkice Pouncey were and will continue to be serviceable.  Yeah yeah, Pouncey made the Pro Bowl, but I think the perception of his performance is inflated and haven’t quite yet figured out why.  Foster, also serviceable, teetered at times this season.  He, like the rest of the previously mentioned, should be just fine going into 2015

The far right side of the line is what needs to most improvement.  Marcus Gilbert had a huge decline over the season.  When you have the coaches bring in Mike Adams, who he himself is about two sacks away from a bust declaration, to assist with blocking the right side you know you are in trouble.

Too bad the secondary needs so much attention.  While the offensive line could use a another pick or two in the draft, the Steelers should be focused more on the defensive side (although the front office surprises fans on a regular basis).

Next: Big Ben Extension