Steelers Central

On this episode of Steelers Central, I’ll give my thoughts on the team’s Preseason Week One win against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The QB\’s executed the offense at a high level, pass protection was above average, and the depth pieces in the secondary proved their worth. Some UDFA WRs made their case battling for the last spots as well. Why was I not impressed with one key area of the Steelers' offense, though?

Next, it’s time to look at joint practices and the preseason game against the Buccaneers. Bucs WRs vs Steelers DBs should be a must-watch, as well as how the two Steelers tackles do against Haason Reddick and Yaya Diaby on the exterior offensive line. This should be a good test for the Steelers' offensive line against an excellent run defense as well. One position group can prove itself by going against a physical but inconsistent secondary against the Buccaneers.

There is currently a contract dispute in Pittsburgh, too, with two well-respected veterans holding out, demanding a pay raise. This is an easy solution for Pittsburgh; give it to them. They deserve it. Chris Boswell has won countless games and is coming off another AP season, but is outside the Top 10 in average value. Cam Heyward took a team-friendly deal with two non-guaranteed years on his contract, and made an AP team, arguably being the team’s best defensive player. Easy solution that will get done by the Steelers Front Office.

Lastly, the Steelers should play Aaron Rodgers in the last two preseason games despite him not being a preseason QB. The offense needs a jolt and to get some reps before week one. If Rodgers is all-in and committed to this team, he will buy into this. Pittsburgh’s offense needs as many reps as possible going into a season with inexperience all around, particularly at the WR and offensive line positions.

0:00-23:13 Preseason Week One

23:14-32:57 Looking Ahead to Tampa Bay

32:58-41:20 Veteran Contract Dispute

41:21-49:17 Rodgers Should Play in the Preseason

On this episode of Steelers Central, the Steelers offense has gotten off to a slow start, is it time to start worrying? The WR core has struggled outside of DK Metcalf, the offensive line has not opened consistent running lanes, and Aaron Rodgers has even looked shaky at times.

It's time for some mid-training camp takeaways including a standout rookie class. The Steelers rookie class has really impressed thus far each with their own standout plays. Troy Fautanu and Mason McCormick have each looked improved off their rookie years, and lastly, there is still a concern about the WR 2 position.

The feeling around the team between the national and local media has been a little out of proportion as well. The national media seems to think this team will go on some kind of fairy tale run, while the local media think the team is improved, not to the extent of a Super Bowl run though. This team has improved, but glaring holes will keep them from making a deep playoff run.

Lastly, I got to feel for Will Howard. The guy leads Ohio State to the National Championship, puts up big numbers throughout the playoffs, and falls all the way to the 6th round of the NFL Draft. Then he balls out in training camp, breaks a bone in his hand, and then could be out for three weeks, not seeing a preseason camp. Why I feel bad knowing this could be his only legitimate shot.

0:00-12:43 Time to Panic About the Offense

12:44-25:50 Midway Training Camp Takeaways

25:51-31:51 Discrepancy Between Local and National Media

31:52-36:49 Feeling for Howard

On this episode of Steelers Central, we take a look ahead to see if Broderick Jones could get benched in the middle of the season. Despite Pittsburgh’s lack of depth at the position, I think it is more likely that people believe that, given the improved play of Dylan Cook and Calvin Anderson throughout training camp, and also the Steelers' urgency to win. If Jones doesn’t perform well in the preseason, the Steelers could be looking for other options to protect Aaron Rodgers.

It is time to take a look back through the training camp lens and discuss some of the trends over the recent practices. The energy at camp has been infectious, thanks to the Pat McAfee Show and the Friday Night Lights. It has brought some of the best players, including Joey Porter Jr., who set the tone with some improved run defense and jawing with his fellow wideouts, a theme the secondary has brought this year. The tackles have also improved their play with Broderick Jones out, with players like Dylan Cooke, Calvin Anderson, and even Troy Fautanu stepping in. The linebackers are the group that sets the tone, dominating in the backfield against the running backs, with the RBS bouncing back on Friday, particularly Kaleb Johnson. The offense also still has a long way to go to catch the defense.

Next, here comes the WR rumors with 29-year-old Terry McLaurin requesting a trade from the Commanders. The Steelers have inquired about the move, and I think they should do more if this situation escalates. I don’t think it would be an overwhelming trade package either, similar to the D.K. Metcalf deal, and maybe less if you throw in Calvin Austin or Roman Wilson.

Lastly, with Hall of Fame Weekend coming to a close, I give my Steelers that should be considered for the HOF or given consideration when the time comes. No, I’m not talking about the obvious Big Ben or Maurkice Pouncey. Give me players like Hines Ward, James Harrison, Cam Heyward, and a former disgraced Steeler who ended on bad terms.

0:00-12:05 Broderick Jones Benched?

12:06-23:00 The Energy Shifting in Camp!

23:01-35:00 McLaurin, Future Steeler?

35:01-52:11 Steelers Who Should Get to the HOF

On this episode of Steelers Central, although it’s early to say in training camp, is this Steelers defense on the path to being elite? There have been some promising schematic changes, including disguising coverages and moving edge players, but some people are saying it’s just early and they're testing it out. I’ll tell you why I think these changes are only a sign of things to come.

Speaking of putting the pads on, Broderick Jones has gotten off to a slow start, being put on highlight reels two practices in a row by Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig. Getting off the ball seems still to be a problem for the gifted first-round pick, but why should people not hit the panic button yet?

Backs vs. Backers also kicks off on Wednesday after practice was rained out on Tuesday, and I’ll give you the matchups to look out for, including the obvious Jaylen Warren vs Patrick Queen. Kaleb Johnson still needs to get his feet wet against a young up-and-coming second linebacker, who has a chance to improve his blitzing skills, as well as a shifty running back going up against that same linebacker in the passing game, after he said he thinks he is one of the best coverage linebackers in the NFL.

The same goes for offensive linemen vs defensive linemen. We’ll delve into why the young offensive tackles going up against arguably the best pass rusher in the NFL are the most critical matchups in training camp. Then, a center that quickly rose in the ranks and cemented itself among the best in the NFL, going up against Cam Heyward and another former Badger interior pass rusher looking to have a bounce-back year, could sharpen some steel on both sides of the ball.

0:00-13:05 Steelers Defense Elite?

13:06-19:00 Broderick Jones’s Slow Start

19:01-28:40 Backs vs Backers

28:41-41:14 O-Line vs D-Line

On this episode of Steelers Central, training camp is officially upon us, and we’ll take a look at what position battles are going to be the most fun to watch as Week One nears. That includes one rookie looking to land the starting RB spot against a former undrafted free agent, and who will the other outside WR be alongside DK Metcalf?

As always, some veteran players may be on the chopping block. Connor Heyward could be getting the axe, as some undrafted rookie tight ends have been making a good first impression in the tight end room. One fourth-year defensive lineman will also have his work cut out for him, coming off a season-ending neck injury, after the Steelers reloaded in the defensive trenches.

Four days into training camp, some noticeable stars and differences have emerged before the pads are officially put on. The 2025 rookie class is already making names for themselves as Derrick Harmon is demolishing the run game and knocking down passes, while Kaleb Johnson is exploding through holes and packing a punch in the Steelers' run game. The defense has also been noticeably more unpredictable, with Jalen Ramsey blitzing off the slot and TJ Watt and Alex Highsmith lining up all over the defensive line. On a negative note, one Steelers' offensive tackle is not living up to expectations and is now dealing with a soft-tissue injury.

Lastly, the Steelers made a surprising but necessary move, signing former Ravens and Jets safety Chuck Clark. Mike Tomlin has been complimentary, saying he is a high-character player, a great teammate, and communicator. He is a versatile defensive back who thrives in the box. This means a more pass-heavy role for Juan Thornhill. I’ll explain why I don’t LOVE the signing as there were better options out there.

0:00-16:55 Position Battles to Watch

16:56-25:30 Veteran Cut Candidates

25:31-43:25 Training Camp Takeaways

43:26-49:22 Steelers Sign Chuck Clark

WAR IS OVER! The Steelers have officially signed TJ Watt to a record 3-year $123 million extension. See why I think the Steelers overpaid for Watt, despite not offering him a four- or five-year deal. Now the pressure turns to the 30-year-old OLB to make the Steelers a playoff contender and have meaningful games down the stretch of the season. Part of his success will be from adjusting his game. For him to pay off this deal, the Steelers will need to win a Super Bowl, and he will be a DPOY candidate for the duration of his time in Pittsburgh.

Now with the Watt deal out of the way, the attention is on the Steelers' play on the field. See the headlines that I will be focusing on as we continue into training, including the offensive identity around Aaron Rodgers and the variety of ways the team uses Jalen Ramsey.

Speaking of the secondary, the Steelers' most pressing need is at the free safety position behind Juan Thornhill. What initially looked like a solid depth signing has turned into the starting safety following the trade for Jalen Ramsey. I am very concerned about the lack of talent at the safety positions and provide my reasons why, along with some potential options to address this in the free agent market, including a second-team All-Pro.

The Steelers released some throwback uniforms on Monday, honoring the team’s founding in 1933. The uniform is mediocre at best, with the beige pants making it even worse. The beige pants need to go, but one thing everyone can agree on is the yellow helmet being fire. Those need to be a staple of the throwback uniforms. I also suggest three options that the team could have done and the fans would have loved, including an all-white ’70s uniform with a black helmet.

0:00-17:00 Watt a Payday

17:01-27:20 Training Camp Storylines

27:21-36:05 Juan Thornhill the Answer?

36:06-44:57 Steelers Jerseys: Hot or Not

On this episode of Steelers Central, it’s time to take a look at the state of the T.J. Watt contract situation and why this is becoming such a hold-up. With just under 10 days until players report to training camp, Watt and the Steelers are still far apart, according to multiple reporters, with the sticking point being guaranteed money late in the deal. I think a deal will get done, but the Steelers should not cave into making Watt the highest-paid defensive player.

Next, there is more WR drama brewing around the NFL in San Francisco and Washington. The Steelers could move the chips all in the middle by making an extreme splash move for Terry McLaurin or get a solid fit for Arthur Smith’s scheme in Jauan Jennings. Either way, the Steelers need to make a move to improve that room.

Minkah Fitzpatrick’s exit leaves a hole for the communicator on the backend of Pittsburgh’s defense. The Steelers now have a veteran-laden group, but just two starters from last year. Jalen Ramsey must step in and be the vocal leader and communicator of the backend while also helping Joey Porter Jr. model his game after Ramsey’s. I think the combination of Slay’s professionalism and Ramsey’s technique will help elevate Porter Jr.’s game in a big way.

Lastly, why I am more afraid of Baltimore’s run-first power scheme than Cincinnati’s air raid passing attack.

0:00-20:57 Watt Contract Situation

20:58-35:10 Salivating WR2 Options

35:11-46:25 Replacing the Communicator

46:26-60:42 More Fearsome: Bengals or Ravens

On this episode of Steelers Central, I take a look at some players who may not be on your radar, but could be as the 2025 season approaches. One of these guys is a linebacker who signed the biggest deal in Steelers Free Agent history. Another is a player who received a new extension worth just under $50 million and did not deliver consistent production for a sputtering offense. Tune in to see who I am talking about.

Omar Khan has been a little different from his predecessor, Kevin Colbert. The splashy big-name trades, trading away team leaders, and spending big money in free agency are not something Colbert would dream of doing. The Steelers seem to like Khan’s vision, too, as he just received a 3-year extension as well. See what my thoughts are of Khan, and why what I think he is doing this year, in particular, is tough for almost any GM. Building for the future, and gunning for immediate playoff success immediately, while not depleting assets.

Speaking of going “all-in”, there is one key piece that is still missing for the Pittsburgh Steelers defense, and that is their motor in TJ Watt. Watt is still battling for a new contract extension that is reportedly not close to being done. See what I think is holding them up, as well as how likely a trade is, as the training camp deadline nears. Hint: I think both sides eventually come together and get a deal done despite contentious obstacles getting in the way. The two headstrong sides will compromise, do what is best for both of them, and find a common middle ground, such as Watt retiring as a Steeler and the team not overpaying.

0:00-18:55 Under the radar, big year players

18:56-32:20 These aren’t your same old Steelers

32:21-46:04 Watt Saga Continues

On this episode of Steelers Central, it’s time to break down the rare player-for-player trade involving Jalen Ramsey and Minkah Fitzpatrick. This brings in the veteran versatile corner who could even see some time at the safety position. Ramsey brings some edge and physicality to the Steelers' defense and will be a plus defender in the run game. This addition also gives the Steelers the deepest cornerback room they have seen in years, despite it being a veteran-laden group.

Next, the team will need to address how they will replace a player like Minkah Fitzpatrick. Despite the absence of splash plays, Fitzatrick brought a sense of comfort and experience to the backend of the Steelers' defense and was a great fit alongside the physical run defender, Deshon Elliot. Juan Thornhill will look to take over the starting safety duties going forward, but the team will need to make another depth addition. What names should the Steelers go after, including a veteran All-Pro who is still among the best safeties in the NFL?

The Steelers also added Jonnu Smith for a late-round pick swap, who is coming off a career year and setting Dolphins records for receptions and yards. The 30-year-old provides a spark in the passing game and some versatility as a mismatch TE in the passing game. Smith will now be in a logjam with a crowded WR room and is by no means a seamless fit in the Steelers' offense. I’ll tell you how I think the team will use them and the impact they could have on the Steelers' offense. Yes, the team still does need another WR.

Lastly, it’s time to analyze who I think will step up this year for the Steelers. Aaron Rodgers discussed how some young players will make a name for themselves on this team. I’ll give you three names on each side of the ball that could make a name for themselves

0:00-17:30 Steelers trade for Jalen Ramsey, Jonnu Smith

17:31-26:35 How do you replace Minkah?

26:36-35:55 Jonnu Smith’s Role

35:56-48:11 Young Breakout Candidates

On this episode of Steelers Central, we'll break down Aaron Rodgers' first appearance on the Pat McAfee show and why I was impressed by his appearance. Rodgers took a backseat and was the student in the room as he learned about his new team, the leadership hierarchy, and the nuances of his new roster.

Next, the Steelers' defense may have some new wrinkles in it for this coming season. That is according to CB Beanie Bishop. Mike Tomlin stated that the defense would be looking a lot different this upcoming year, and many speculated that it meant personnel changes. That does not seem to be the case, as there were only two. Tune in to see what those changes could be, according to Bishop, and why it will be a good thing even with some early struggles.

Rodgers, the reason for Pickens' exit? It played a part in the Pickens trade, but not in the way you think. The Steelers' evaluation of the Pickens-Rodgers relationship was spot on, as they realized these two would eventually butt heads when the going got tough. That does not mean I wouldn't have at least tested it out to see just how good the Metcalf and Pickens duo could have been, and leaving the offense in the same spot they were last year.

Lastly, the Steelers need to acquire Jalen Ramsey. Yes, I said it, if the team is serious about this being an all-in, and they are, don't let them con you. Going out and getting Aaron Rodgers was 100% the intention of him being the QB that gives us the best shot at making noise in the AFC. Ramsey immediately gives them a plug-and-play corner that can still play at an All-Pro level, similar to Joe Haden late in his career. Ramsey is a ball hawk and a versatile chess piece that would fit the mentality and style of player the Steelers are looking for. He is also in the last year of his deal, so he wouldn't count against the cap next year unless you extend him.

0:00-18:35 Rodgers on the McAfee Show

18:36-30:35 New Look Steelers Defense?

30:36-43:25 Rodgers, the reason Pickens was traded?

43:25-53:12 Ramsey to the Steelers is a must