The Steelers strategy for off season team improvement doesn’t always work out as drawn up. Steeler Nation be prepared, this may be one of those years.
The Steelers drafting ability has long been questioned with numerous draft picks not panning out. Truth be told, the Steelers are not the only team in that boat.
Sometimes, these players need more than a year to fulfill their potential. Learning how to play in the NFL is more than about talent. It is about a mindset change and an environment change.
This year the Steelers need to fill critical holes on both the offense AND the defense. We can argue all day long about which should be handled in the draft. The Steelers need talent from the draft and from available veteran talent.
I think there are several big needs (in no particular order):
If Roethlisberger can’t stay upright, then the season is in jeopardy – will this offensive line be as good as last year? Are the Steelers prepared to replace injured o-line personnel?
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If the running game isn’t as good or better than last year (i.e. a good back-up for Bell), then it will be tough to pile up wins. Le’Veon Bell cannot be the only good running back. I’m not saying RB-by-committee, but he must have a designated back up.
If the defense doesn’t keep the opposing offense out of the end zone, it will be hard to win. Is the need on the front line first? What about the cornerbacks and safeties? There is a big need there too.
Can all these things be handled with off season acquisitions? Well, it is possible. However, I don’t know if it is realistic given the salary cap issues versus the available talent.
I can hope that the Steelers find the right mix of people, regardless of veteran experience, who come together as a team quickly. I just think that is the exception and not the norm.
The Steelers have a lot to handle in the off season, in my opinion. I think they kept some continuity by hiring from within to replace Dick LeBeau, but if Colbert and Tomlin wants significant chances on the defense, then the Steelers have yet another thing to try to work out.
I’m going to remain positive and hopeful because I bleed black and gold. However, I’m a realist and the list this offseason is long. There isn’t one need, there are several and it may be a challenge to get it all handled this year.
What do you think Steeler Nation? What is the biggest need? Are there several things that must be handled that can’t be ranked as one more important than that other?