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How about these new Pittsburgh Steelers!

By Mitchell Reese

CHICAGO, IL - SEPTEMBER 24: The Pittsburgh Steelers huddle up during warm-ups prior to the game against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on September 24, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - SEPTEMBER 24: The Pittsburgh Steelers huddle up during warm-ups prior to the game against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on September 24, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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The Pittsburgh Steelers of 2018 have something special about them.

This year in Pittsburgh has been a season unlike several before. This team showed complete dominance in thirteen games throughout the year, and only losing three. How did this happen?

The answer to that relies on key pickups during the draft and free agency. Let’s highlight some of the players who came on this season, and show appreciation for what they’ve done.

T.J. Watt is the obvious choice for the linebacking core. This man has a huge frame, and speed unlike any other. Watt on the year has 46 tackles, an astounding six sacks, and one interception, along with a forced fumble. These numbers for a rookie are tremendous and will be sought after highly after the release of James Harrison.

The next player on the defense we have to highlight comes from a rival, making his first playoff appearance.

Joe Haden has come to Pittsburgh to win, and that’s all he’s doing. Joe’s never quit mentality and his Pro Bowl skill set have made him a dominant corner in black and yellow. Haden has racked up an interception, 16 tackles, and 6 passes deflected. These numbers don’t even come close to explaining why no one throws this man’s way. He may be small, but he is a shut down corner, and for that Pittsburgh boasts one of the best pass defenses in the league when Haden is healthy.

Last but not least, the rookie of the year.

JuJu Smith-Schuster has taken this team by storm and is not looking back, not even to check for traffic on his bike. JuJu has a total 49 catches, 774 yards and 6 receiving touchdowns. The questions about him arose early when Martavis Bryant made statements about him on Twitter and Instagram during his suspension, but JuJu was not bothered.

This man came out and proved why he can make a name in the Steel City, and has proven to be an amazing asset in this Steeler offense.

Of course, these aren’t the only guys who have made a difference. Guys like Tyson Alualu and Vance McDonald have taken strides in Steeler uniforms, but there’s more to come from them as well.

Next: Alan Faneca named Hall of Fame Finalist, again

Thank you men, for an amazing regular season in this fine Steel City and here’s to an amazing playoff run! Here We Go Steelers!

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