5 dream scenarios for Pittsburgh Steelers in 2023

3. Steelers rookies exceed expectations

There are already high expectations for Pittsburgh's rookie class, and rightfully so. Pittsburgh landed a pair of first-round talents with their first two selections in OT Broderick Jones and CB Joey Porter Jr. In addition to these two, they found quality players at good value by selecting guys like DL Keeanu Benton, TE Darnell Washington, and OLB Nick Herbig.

In order to really make the leap from a mid-tier football team to a legitimate playoff contender, the Steelers are going to need all hands on deck in 2023. That includes big performances from their rookie class.

This team was in need of upgrades at offensive tackle, cornerback, and defensive tackle. If these rookies can prove to be better than the starters this team had in 2022, that could potentially give them a big enough boost to claim a Wild Card spot in the AFC.

We have seen the type of impact a strong rookie class can have in the NFL. Most experts agree that the Steelers had one of the best drafts of any team this year, as they valued good players at important positions. If they can somehow exceed lofty expectations, this team could become a threat as early as the upcoming season.