5 bold predictions for Steelers, AFC North in 2023

4. Steelers finish 2nd in the AFC North

These are called bold predictions for a reason. Are the Pittsburgh Steelers most likely to finish as the second-best team in the division? Probably not. But it doesn't mean they can't. As has been the trend, I would expect the Cincinnati Bengals to claim the AFC North title thanks to their strong roster and powerhouse offense led by Joe Burrow. After that, it's anybody's game.

According to odds from DraftKings Sportsbook, the Steelers have the worst odds to win the AFC North. These odds are topped by the Bengals and followed by the Ravens and Browns. But that doesn't mean that this will be the order in which these teams finish the season.

Last year, I urged betters to take the Steelers as finishing third or better in the division, and they did. They earned a record of 9-8 while the Browns sat well below at 7-10. I think it's likely that the Steelers could top Cleveland again in 2023, but getting ahead of the Ravens will be a bit more difficult.

Assuming Baltimore is getting a healthy Lamar Jackson and some new weapons to work with in Odell Beckham and first-round wide receiver, Zay Flowers, they could be much improved on offense. However, if the Steelers can take care of business in their head-to-head matchups, that could be the difference between finishing third or second in the AFC North this year.