4 ways the Steelers can start building a team for the future

1. Steelers must extend young players

It’s one thing to get young talent in the building, but for sustained success, this talent must be kept with the franchise. That’s the challenge Pittsburgh faces as it transitions eras. In order to have a successful future, the Steelers must extend the young players on the roster.

Pittsburgh did a good job of this by signing TJ Watt to a four-year extension this past off-season, now they must turn their attention to players like Minkah Fitzpatrick. After acquiring Fitzpatrick on his rookie contract from the Dolphins, he has been the second most impactful defensive player behind Watt. Fitzpatrick now is set to become a free agent in 2023.

If the Steelers want to remain competitive and keep their defense solid for years to come, they can’t let Fitzpatrick walk. The value he’s provided to this football team is immeasurable, and his turnover-forcing play style is a huge reason Pittsburgh’s defense has been among the best.

Fitzpatrick, however, is just one example. Whether it is him, JuJu Smith-Schuster, or any other young player who shows promise in the black and gold, the Steelers must make sure they remain in that uniform during their prime.

Pittsburgh has a very storied past, but it is time to turn the page. Moving on from good times of yesterday doesn’t mean that tomorrow has to be less promising. If the Steelers take the right steps, their rebuild can be more of a rebrand, and good times should still be on the horizon.