Steelers already have one huge edge before NFL schedule drops

Knowing your upcoming opponents is important. This is why the NFL schedule release date is circled on calendars league-wide. The Pittsburgh Steelers will not know their official schedule until Thursday at 8 PM. But the strength of the schedule has been released. 

And it’s great news for Mike McCarthy. 

Based on last season's opponent win percentages, the Steelers rank 19th in strength of schedule, per the NFL. It’s a significant difference from previous years. It’s also a blessing in disguise. 

The Steelers did not ask for an easier schedule. In truth, A grueling regular season could make the postseason a walk in the park. It could also deteriorate a roster before meaningful games are played. So why ask for Mission Impossible if you don’t have to? 

Especially when an extra advantage will help during an identity change. 

Pittsburgh’s rebuilding phase has made Omar Khan’s franchise vulnerable. Short-term solutions created little room to implement a consistent ecosystem. Yes, offseason additions via the draft and free agency filled holes for McCarthy’s staff. But with Aaron Rodgers’ decision to re-sign uncertain, it’s hard to predict what we will see come September. 

The Pittsburgh Steelers must take advantage of an easier strength of schedule

I expect Rodgers to join the team eventually.

Still, his age is a concern against quicker defenders. This is where weaker opponents come into play. Last season, Pittsburgh ranked 10th in strength of schedule (.526). Still, they finished on top of the AFC North with Rodgers at the helm. The All-Pro ranked 13th in touchdowns (24) with Kenneth Gainswell and DK Metcalf as his primary targets. 

Michael Pittman Jr. and Germie Bernard add more diversity to the offense. And Rodgers can work magic against weaker defenses. 

Not everything falls on the veteran’s decision. If Pittsburgh begins the season with an inexperienced gunslinger, its defense is expected to carry the burden. Unfortunately, this has become the Steelers' identity in recent campaigns. But last season, the group was not prepared for the fight. 

In 2025, Pittsburgh ranked 28th in yards allowed per game (360.8). Jaquan Brisker and Jamel Dean were brought in to slow down opposing quarterbacks. A lower strength-of-schedule confirms that each week should not result in an opposing offensive frenzy.

A less strenuous Strength of schedule does not automatically equate to more wins.

Mike McCarthy’s staff must work diligently to prepare for the upcoming campaign. Anyone can win on any given Sunday in the NFL. But I do believe a less strenuous schedule will work in the Pittsburgh Steelers' favor this season. It’s a nice change of scenery for a team that could benefit from an easier road right now.

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