Steelers given shockingly bad grade after big offseason

July 3, 2026 - 00:38

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been given a surprisingly harsh grade for their work this offseason, with one ESPN analyst delivering a scathing assessment of the team's moves. The criticism centers on the franchise's handling of the quarterback position and a perceived lack of aggressive roster improvement.

According to the analyst, the Steelers' decision to stick with a combination of Russell Wilson and Justin Fields under center is a major gamble that could backfire. Rather than trading up for a top rookie quarterback or signing a proven star, the team is relying on two players who have struggled in recent seasons. Wilson, despite his past success, looked washed up in Denver, while Fields has yet to prove he can be a consistent passer in the NFL. The grade reflects a belief that the front office failed to address the most important position on the field in a meaningful way.

Beyond the quarterback room, the analyst also questioned the team's moves on the offensive line and in the secondary. While the Steelers added some depth, the report suggests they did not do enough to close the gap with the top teams in the AFC. The result is a grade that many fans and insiders have called shockingly low, especially given the team's strong draft class and the return of star linebacker T.J. Watt from injury.

The harsh evaluation has sparked debate among Steelers fans, with some defending the team's patient approach and others agreeing that the offseason was a missed opportunity. Regardless, the low grade sets a pessimistic tone for a franchise that has long prided itself on competing for championships.