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Entering his 18th year as the Pittsburgh Steelers head coach, Mike Tomlin hasn’t had a losing season, and we won’t bet against him now.
The Steelers signed quarterback Russell Wilson, who had a solid 2023 campaign with the Denver Broncos, throwing for 3,070 yards, 26 touchdowns and eight interceptions with a 66.4 percent completion rate in 15 starts.
Wilson will get more out of the Steelers pass-catchers as a clear upgrade over Kenny Pickett, whom Pittsburgh traded to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Though Pittsburgh traded Diontae Johnson to the Carolina Panthers, George Pickens could break out with gaudy receiving numbers in his third season.
Van Jefferson may be a solid No. 2 or 3 receiver. The Athletic’s Mark Kaboly believes the Steelers could add an established wideout before Week 1.
If Pittsburgh does not acquire another starting-caliber wide receiver, rookie third-rounder Roman Wilson can contribute this season. Based on the Steelers’ recent track record of hitting on Day 2 receivers, he has a shot to make an immediate impact.
As a passer, Wilson hasn’t had a strong rapport with his tight ends, but as a former tight ends coach, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith should be able to get Pat Freiermuth and perhaps Darnell Washington involved in the aerial attack.
If Wilson struggles under center, the Steelers can move the ball with Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren on the ground. As an offensive play-caller, Smith has fielded a top-nine ground attack in four out of five seasons.
In over half their years under Tomlin, the Steelers ranked within the top 10 in scoring defense, finishing sixth last season.
Wilson probably isn’t going to rediscover his Pro Bowl form, but he has good enough support to help get this team over eight wins.
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