Happy New Year to all of Steelers Nation. It is a perfect time to reflect on what happened in 2024, and what you could do to make life better in 2025. When it comes to Pittsburgh, most of everyone's emotions are tied to the local football team. The Steelers had a successful 2024, but they will hope to carry their success into the playoffs. Another one-and-done postseason would be a disaster.
Now that we are getting into the New Year festivities, many across the world are working on their resolutions. Most times it will be those trying to hit the gym and get in shape. Those normally fizzle out within a couple of weeks, but the Steelers have plenty of things they could improve upon. They will have dreams of their own in 2025 between this upcoming offseason and when the calendar concludes.
1. Win a playoff game
Just mentioned it, but the Steelers need to win a football game this postseason. They are in a good spot right now to finally win a ball game when it matters most. They have a quarterback who has been there and won many games when facing elimination. Their defense remains one of the best in the NFL. If they cannot win a playoff game once again, Mike Tomlin will never hear the end of it.
2. Re-sign Russell Wilson
He just signed last year in one of the best value moves in the Tomlin era. Russell Wilson has played well enough that he deserves a nice pay raise from the Steelers. He is not the same level of player that he was when he was challenging for Super Bowls, but Wilson remains effective. It would shock everyone if Pittsburgh couldn't find a way to extend the veteran signal-caller before free agency.
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3. Don't count on Broderick Jones as the only option
He has finally started to come up with better performances, but it is hard to give full confidence in Broderick Jones. The young tackle has yet to play on the left side for extended periods, so the Steelers cannot go into next season with him as the only option. Not saying they need to re-sign Dan Moore Jr. or pay top dollar, but they could use a veteran left tackle to compete against him.
4. Get younger on the defensive line
Pittsburgh has made a concerted effort to invest high draft picks on the offensive line in recent years. They have added some quality young pieces on the defensive line, but it hasn't been as much of a focus as their offensive counterparts. Cam Heyward is having a terrific season, but it would be beneficial if the Steelers could bring in some starting talent through the next couple of drafts.
5. Land an upgrade for their second receiver spot
They brought in Mike Williams before the trade deadline, but that seems to be a flop. If Pittsburgh can finally find a top receiver opposite George Pickens, then they could be cooking with grease. They have struggled ever since they traded away Diontae Johnson. Expect the Steelers to remain in the rumor mill on the trade front and free agency during the new year as they search for a starting option.