The message has been pretty clear, this offseason. The Pittsburgh Steelers have wanted to improve greatly on offense.
That started with the additions of Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, of course. But from there, the Steelers went into the 2024 NFL Draft with a plan to surround their quarterback(s) with as much talent and protection as possible.
Defensively, the Steelers should be more than fine if they're healthy. After all, T.J. Watt is a human wrecking ball, and he's got some pretty good talent around him as well. The real worry, for Steelers fans, has been on the offensive side.
After the draft, it's pretty safe to assume Pittsburgh is going to see some veterans take a step back in terms of playing time. The plan should be in place for a good chunk of rookies to get ample playing time, and we might even see some difference-makers on the defensive side of the ball from this rookie class.
Which veterans should be worried about playing time?
The offensive, top-heavy draft class should get plenty of opportunity in Pittsburgh
Van Jefferson and Quez Watkins, WR
When the Steelers drafted Roman Wilson in the third round, fans everywhere breathed a sigh of relief. There was no possible way Pittsburgh was going to depend on Van Jefferson or Quez Watkins to be their second and third in line. Of course, the Steelers would later reunite Scotty Miller with Arthur Smith, which further muddies the water.
But, Wilson is going to be this team's WR2, no question. Jefferson will take a back seat, and so will Watkins.