There is a lot of optimism surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers entering the 2023 off-season. The team did a total 180-degree turn in the second half of the season, as they started 2-6 but ended the season 9-8. That extended Mike Tomlin’s impressive streak of consecutive seasons to start a coaching career without a losing season to 16.
If he wants to see that streak continue to 17, the Steelers have some holes on their roster to fill. When healthy, their defense remains a dominant unit powered by the pass-rushing prowess of T.J. Watt. Upgrading the secondary is certainly near the top of the team’s to-do list this offseason.
On the offensive side of the ball, natural progress from quarterback Kenny Pickett in Year 2 should lead to improvements. Pickett made strides in the second half of the season, cutting way back on his interceptions and making plays when the team needed them most. But, for the Steelers to really climb into the ranks of contenders, they need to add some explosiveness to this passing game.
George Pickens is a burgeoning star after showing big play ability as a rookie. Diontae Johnson remains a steady possession receiver and Calvin Austin III getting back into the fold after missing his rookie season will help. Alas, it certainly wouldn’t hurt to bring in some added firepower.
The team traded Chase Claypool to the Chicago Bears ahead of the 2022 deadline, so wide receiver is an under-the-radar need. One player who could pique their interest is Mecole Hardman.
Hardman spent the first four seasons of his career with the Kansas City Chiefs but looks like he could lose out in the numbers game. He would bring speed and athleticism to the group, a capable deep threat that showed a nose for the end zone scoring six times in eight games. Hardman is a good fit for the screens and end-around plays that Pittsburgh has used so frequently in recent seasons.
Speed and athleticism could also be found in Parris Campbell. He picked the perfect time to put together a career season, staying healthy for the first time with the Indianapolis Colts and producing despite shaky quarterback play. A natural slot receiver, Campbell would be an ideal fit in Pittsburgh with Pickens and Johnson working the perimeter.
Campbell can provide Pittsburgh with insurance for Austin, whose first season as a pro was a wash. He could earn himself a nice payday given how well he performed in 2022, which could lead the Steelers to seek out a more affordable option, such as Jarvis Landry.
Landry would provide some much-needed experience to a wide receiver room where Johnson, entering Year 5, is the elder statesman. Landry has lost a step or two, but it wasn’t too long ago that he was considered the premier slot receiver in the NFL.
He would be an ideal mentor to Austin, starting the season as a safety blanket for Pickett and ideally giving way to the 2022 fourth-round pick as the season wears on. A veteran of that caliber would be perfect for this young offense, helping teach them the ropes of being an NFL player.
