Forget playoffs, Steelers fans should just root for these three things vs. Bengals

Steelers 2023 draft class to continue to make strides vs. Bengals

As most of the Steelers' roster disappointed us this year, most fans should be very pleased with the performances Pittsburgh received from their 2023 draft class. So far, it certainly seems like the Steelers have struck gold from their decisions back in April, and these players are offering hope of a future to an otherwise hopeless team.

Broderick Jones has plenty of mechanical flaws he needs to work through, but his raw talent is routinely on display. Fans should be rooting for him to trend in the right direction. He certainly seems to have everything it takes to be a premier tackle if he can clean up his game a bit.

Likewise, Steelers fans should be very optimistic about the weapons they found on defense. Joey Porter Jr. continues to be too grabby, but his sticky coverage flashes 'lockdown cornerback' upside. Meanwhile, Keeanu Benton hasn't been the most consistent, but he has insane burst and movement skills for a big interior defensive linemen and he could be one of the best in the business.

Even mid-round picks like TE Darnell Washington and EDGE Nick Herbig have flashed at times this year. Keep an eye on this entire 2023 draft class against the Bengals. This unit could prove to be the foundation of a new era in Pittsburgh, so rooting for their improvement and success is just as important as anything else this week.