2. Steelers Finish Top-16 in Rushing Yards

The Steelers finished 31st in rushing in 2018 and 29th last season. Since losing Le’Veon Bell, the team’s ground game hasn’t performed at a reliable level. Although, the rushing attack didn’t exactly post phenomenal numbers under Bell either.

Pittsburgh’s offense hasn’t cracked the top 16 in rushing since 2016, when the team finished 14th. The unit also ranked 16th in rushing the previous season. However, the team’s offensive line and backfield aren’t as dominant as they were in the middle of the decade.

Despite their aging line and mixed backfield, the Steelers can put together a top-16 rushing attack this season. After missing significant time in back-to-back years, James Conner rebuilt his body this offseason. He looks ready to create havoc for opposing defenses.

Pittsburgh’s offensive line potentially got better this offseason as well. The unit replaced retiring guard Ramon Foster with Stefen Wisniewski. While Foster served as a stout and reliable starter for nearly a decade, his age began showing over the past two seasons.

Wisniewski provides the Steelers with a player who offers starting experience and doesn’t have much wear and tear. Wisniewski recently won Super Bowls with the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs.

Ben Roethlisberger’s return should pave the way for Pittsburgh’s running game to face lighter defensive fronts. With Conner entering a contract year, he should play inspired football for the Steelers.