News Steelers Team Notes

Steelers named biggest losers of AFC North amidst Aaron Rodgers situation

Miami Dolphins v New York Jets

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The Steelers continue to wait for Aaron Rodgers.

The Pittsburgh Steelers had a solid NFL Draft, adding defensive tackle Derrick Harmon and running back Kaleb Johnson with their first two picks. They also signed veteran wide receiver Robert Woods to be a veteran presence in an otherwise young receiving corps. However, as the Steelers continue to wait for Aaron Rodgers, the more time passes by as OTAs and mini-camp approach.

Moe Moton of Bleacher Report went through and named every NFL division’s biggest loser of the 2025 offseason, and he named the Steelers as the losers of the AFC North.

“The Pittsburgh Steelers are playing the Aaron Rodgers waiting game, a risky gamble with Mason Rudolph as the front-runner for the starting quarterback position,” Moton writes. “While on The Pat McAfee Show, Rodgers said there’s “no deadline” on whether he plans to play or retire. If Rodgers walks away from the game, Pittsburgh can turn its attention to Atlanta Falcons’ backup signal-caller Kirk Cousins, who’s looking for a starting job... Either way, the Steelers could take a step back with their current quarterback situation, which isn’t ideal for a veteran-laden team in win-now mode. They have two explosive playmaking wide receivers, George Pickens and DK Metcalf, but the question is, will their starting quarterback be able to maximize that talent?”

While many in the league expect Pittsburgh to pivot to Cousins if Rodgers falls through, you’d find a big chunk of the fan base who says they’d rather just roll with Mason Rudolph for the season. Rudolph helped the Steelers win their final three games in 2023, and Pittsburgh slipped into the playoffs in large part because of his play. While they lost to Buffalo, Rudolph helped the Steelers make the game interesting by leading the Steelers on a 17-3 run after getting in a 21-0 deficit.

Regardless, the Steelers have expressed publicly that they expect Rodgers to join the team. When that happens is unknown, but the writing has been on the wall for quite some time.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...dst-aaron-rodgers-situation-mason-rudolph-nfl
 
Former Steelers LB Devin Bush arrested in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Steelers v Indianapolis Colts

Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images

The former No. 1 pick for Pittsburgh was arrested on Sunday

Former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker was arrested on Sunday in Allegheny County on simple assault and harassment charges, according to Colin Dunlap of KDKA. Further details are yet to be known.


Former Steeler Devin Bush was arrested today by Bell Acres Police. pic.twitter.com/rw4gNrWXzG

— Colin Dunlap (@colin_dunlap) May 4, 2025

The Steelers traded up for Bush in the 2019 NFL Draft, where they selected the Michigan product with the No. 10 overall pick. He showed tremendous potential as a rookie, finishing third in the Defensive Rookie of the Year voting after racking up 109 tackles, nine of which were for loss. He also had four fumble recoveries and returned one for a touchdown.

Things went south for Bush after the 2020 season, in which he tore his ACL and was never the same after returning. The Steelers declined his fifth-year option, and he signed with the Seattle Seahawks ahead of the 2023 season and then spent 2024 with the Cleveland Browns. Bush signed a one-year deal with Cleveland again this offseason.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...h-arrested-in-pittsburgh-cleveland-browns-nfl
 
Ravens release K Justin Tucker

AFC Wild Card Playoffs: Pittsburgh Steelers v Baltimore Ravens

Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images

The Steelers’ rival has released their controversial kicker

The Baltimore Ravens have released kicker Justin Tucker. The longtime Steelers’ rival has been accused by multiple massage therapists around Baltimore of sexual misconduct, which came to light earlier this year. Baltimore drafted kicker Tyler Loop in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, which all but ended Tucker’s time in Baltimore, and now it is official.

Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta released a statement on the matter:

“Sometimes football decisions are incredibly difficult, and this is one of those instances. Considering our current roster, we have the tough decision to release Justin Tucker. Justin created many significant and unforgettable moments in Ravens history. His reliability, focus, drive, resistance, and extraordinary talent made him one of the league’s best kickers for over a decade. We are grateful for Justin’s many contributions while playing for the Ravens. We sincerely wish him and his family the very best in this next chapter of their lives.”


Statement from Executive Vice President and General Manager Eric DeCosta pic.twitter.com/TNQrqw3me2

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) May 5, 2025

That’s an interesting tone to use, considering everything surrounding Tucker, but I digress. 2025 will be the Ravens’ first season without Tucker since 2011.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...vens-release-k-justin-tucker-eric-decosta-nfl
 
Rumor: Steelers to play Vikings in Ireland

Pittsburgh Steelers v Minnesota Vikings

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

The Steelers’ Ireland opponent has reportedly been revealed

The Pittsburgh Steelers made headlines earlier in the offseason when it was revealed they would be partaking in the NFL’s first regular-season game in Ireland. With the official schedule release coming next week, rumors and potential leaks are starting to come out about who Pittsburgh will play in the historic matchup.

According to Andre Fillipponi, the Steelers’ trip to Ireland will come in Week 4, and Pittsburgh will play the Minnesota Vikings. Despite many penciling in the Green Bay Packers as the Steelers’ opponent, the Pittsburgh radio host says he has been told it will be Minnesota.


Source: The Steelers will host the Vikings in Ireland on September 28th. Not the Packers. Contrary to popular belief. pic.twitter.com/2leihsaGpj

— Andrew Fillipponi (@ThePoniExpress) May 4, 2025

This wouldn’t be the first time the Steelers played Minnesota overseas, as they played the Vikings in London in 2013 in a 34-27 loss. Matt Cassel was the quarterback for the Vikings that day, throwing for 248 yards and two touchdowns against a Steelers defense that was beginning to fall apart. Le’Veon Bell made his NFL debut in this game, as well, rushing for two touchdowns.

We’ll see if Fillipponi is correct when the NFL schedule release takes place on May 14th.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...-vikings-in-ireland-nfl-schedule-release-2025
 
Wide receiver with Aaron Rodgers Ties is ‘In Play’ for Steelers

New York Jets v Minnesota Vikings

Photo by Mario Hommes/DeFodi Images via Getty Images

The Steelers could be gearing up to bring a friend of Aaron Rodgers to Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Steelers traded wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys on Wednesday morning. Pittsburgh sent Pickens and a sixth-round pick in 2027 to Dallas in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick.

While the trade gives Pittsburgh a large collection of picks to go quarterback hunting in 2026, they still need another wide receiver with starting ability. With the hole Pickens left behind, the Steelers could be looking to make Aaron Rodgers happy and bring in one of his long-time targets.

According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, Allen Lazard is “in play” for the Steelers.

“Jets receiver Allen Lazard is ‘in play’ to be traded to the Steelers,” Florio writes. “Why Lazard? Because Rodgers completely and totally trusts him. And Lazard, for whatever reason, performs much better with Rodgers than he does without him.”

Lazard had 37 catches and six touchdowns in 12 games last year with the Jets. His best year came in 2022 when he caught 60 passes for 788 yards and six scores.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...-play-for-steelers-allen-lazard-new-york-jets
 
George Pickens says he didn’t request trade from Steelers

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) jogs off the field at halftime during the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinnati Bengals on December 1, 2024, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, OH.

Photo by Ian Johnson/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Pickens says he didn’t force his way out of Pittsburgh.

George Pickens’ time on the Steelers’ roster wasn’t exactly drama-free, but the new Cowboys wide receiver told beat writers Tuesday that he never requested a trade.

Pittsburgh dealt Pickens and a 2027 sixth-round pick to Dallas on Wednesday for a 2026 third-rounder and a 2027 fifth-rounder.


I asked #Cowboys WR George Pickens if he ever requested a trade from Pittsburgh. He said he didn't.

"Super proud and glad to be here."

He reiterated often that he's excited to be in Dallas and to "help build a winning culture."

— Joseph Hoyt (@JoeJHoyt) May 8, 2025

While Pickens says he never asked for a trade, there were still signs of dissatisfaction during his time in Pittsburgh.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported earlier this month that Pickens had “flirted" with a trade request, but ultimately wanted to stay a Steeler. However, Pickens’ time with the team had been marred with in-game outbursts, reportedly showing up late to a game, and antics such as unfollowing the team on social media.

It’s unclear how much of the trade had to do with Pickens as a locker room fit versus as a financial decision, as Pickens is entering the last year of his rookie deal. In the rumors swirling ahead of the trade, insiders had pointed to both, saying that the Steelers didn’t want to pay two wide receivers after adding D.K. Metcalf, and that there were “behind the scenes” issues between the team and the player.

Pickens, now on the Cowboys, focused on the future over the past in his introductory press conference. “I just … continue to grow,” he said via DLLS Cowboys’ Joseph Hoyt. “I feel like everyone in the world has to grow. ... I’m just trying to build a winning culture, which they already have at the Cowboys. I’m just glad to be joining it.”

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...trade-dallas-cowboys-rumors-wide-receiver-nfl
 
Steelers sign Iowa draft picks Kaleb Johnson, Yahya Black

Kaleb Johnson #2 of the Iowa Hawkeyes carries the ball during the first half against the Maryland Terrapins at SECU Stadium on November 23, 2024 in College Park, Maryland.

Photo by Chris Bernacchi/Diamond Images via Getty Images

The Steelers are signing their 2025 rookie class in a hurry.

Omar Khan is hard at work Friday.

The Steelers announced that they have signed two more members of the team’s 2025 rookie class to four-year deals: Iowa teammates Kaleb Johnson (running back, third round), and Yahya Black (defensive tackle, fifth round). The financial details have yet to be announced.

Earlier May 9, the Steelers announced the signings of quarterback Will Howard, linebackers Jack Sawyer and Carson Bruener, and cornerback/punt returner Donte Kent. Now only first-round pick Derrick Harmon remains unsigned.

Johnson played three years at Iowa, with his most productive season coming in 2024. As a junior, he rushed for 1,537 yards and 21 touchdowns, averaging 6.4 yards per carry.

Black played for five years. In 2024, he logged 34 total tackles and a career-best seven tackles for loss. His best sack season came in 2023, where he recorded 3.5.

Coming from Iowa, both teammates already look great in the black and gold.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...n-yahya-black-rookie-contracts-deals-minicamp
 
Mike Tomlin speaks on George Pickens trade

Pittsburgh Steelers v Cleveland Browns

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The Steelers head coach answered questions about the George Pickens trade

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ trade of George Pickens made waves, as many Steelers fans believe Pittsburgh is right back in the same situation they were last year, only having one star-caliber wideout. And while the Steelers are expected to make at least one more addition at the position, general manager Omar Khan didn’t show his hand, saying he and the team are comfortable with the receivers they have. Khan also added that the trade was best for everyone involved.

“We had conversations internally,” Khan said. “We also had some conversations with George’s agent, Dave [Mulugheta] who I have a good relationship with. We discussed where things have been with George, where they are... this trade made sense for everyone.”

Head coach Mike Tomlin was asked about the trade on Saturday, to which he didn’t add much details or context, more or less echoing what Khan said.

“I’m not gonna add any color to it other than what Omar told you guys yesterday,” Tomlin said. “We thought it was best in time for all parties involved. We’re really just focused on the opportunity this weekend with the rookies.”


Mike Tomlin keeps it mum for the most part on the George Pickens trade, deferring to Omar Khan’s comments yesterday pic.twitter.com/HqVRs24Cu2

— Brian Batko (@BrianBatko) May 10, 2025

The Steelers are moving forward. Whether or not that will include adding another receiver is to be determined.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...-george-pickens-trade-pittsburgh-steelers-nfl
 
Saturday Night Open Thread Offseason Week 13: Word to your Mother

Pittsburgh Steelers vs Oakland Raiders - October 29, 2006

Mother and daughter Pittsburgh Steeler fans cheer during 20-13 loss to the Oakland Raiders at McAfee Coliseum in Oakland, Calif. on Sunday, October 29, 2006. | Photo by Kirby Lee/NFLPhotoLibrary

Come and join this merry band of Steelers’ faithful for some lively debate about our Steelers, good food, music, and the merits of the odd cold beverage.

Live from Delaware, it’s Saturday Night! I, NAS204PSU, am here to bring you this Saturday Night Open Thread (aka SNOT).

Happy Mothers Day tomorrow to all you moms out there. None of us would be here if you hadn’t suffered for 9 months to bring us into this world, one day a year hardly seems enough. I am forever grateful for my mother who supported me and also for my wife who bore my two beautiful daughters.

So, remember to thank all the motherly figures in your life tomorrow ( mom, step mom, grandma, mother of your children etc).

This 6 pack of questions is here to get the conversation going is below, also let us know what you’re eating/drinking!

  1. Rank these Steelers WR-out trades from best value to least:
    a. Pickens to Cowboys for a 3rd and pick swaps (2025)
    b. Diontae Johnson to the Panthers for Donte Jackson and a pick swap(2024)
    c. Chase Claypool to the Bears for a 2nd rounder 32nd overall (2023)
    d. Antonio Brown to Raiders for a 3rd and a 5th (2019)
    e. Martavais Bryant to Raiders for a 3rd rounder (2018)

2. The new pope is American and apparently from Chicago so a Bears / White Sox fan: therefore Chicago produced a pope before they produced a QB throwing over 4000 yards. What are the odds the Steelers find their next franchise QB before the next pope (ie the pope who will come after Leo XVI)?

3. First-round draft pick Derrick Harmon is still mourning the loss of his mother, Tiffany Saine, but reported to rookie minicamp. Have you ever had to work too soon after a loss or difficult time? How’d you get through your shift/responsibility? (Note: if you can, hug your mom at the next opportunity, you never know how long you’ll still be able to)

4. What is the best Mother’s Day gift to gift a mom:
a. Thoughtful letter or personalized thank written in a card.
b. Handmade Pottery (ashtray or coffee mug)
c. Take all their work for a weekend/day( house cleaned, meals cooked, let them relax.
d. Flowers
e. Chocolates/cakes
f. Other- write in comments

5. What’s your favorite meal your mom fed you(bonus for recipes or restaurant suggestions)

6. In honor of Mother’s Day, share something great or core memory about your mom /becoming a mom.

SOTN: Mama I’m Coming Home -Ozzy Osbourne

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...-thread-offseason-week-13-word-to-your-mother
 
George Pickens blasts Steelers on his way out of Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Steelers v Cincinnati Bengals

Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images

The former Steelers didn’t hold back with his thoughts

The Pittsburgh Steelers traded star wide receiver to the Dallas Cowboys on Wednesday morning, sending waves across the NFL landscape. Everyone seems to have their own thoughts on the trade, ranging from it being a horrible decision that puts the Steelers exactly where they were last season to praising it for getting a draft pick for a player they were going to let walk for nothing in 2026.

Pickens shared how he feels about the Steelers organization on the way out in an Instagram post, calling them cheap.

“They the cheapest organization,” Pickens said in a reply to a post by Prospect Media. “Ain’t no stacking year after year they gone let them [expletive] go too soon as it’s time Lmaoo.”

Is George Pickens right about the Steelers being cheap?​


For what it’s worth, Pickens isn’t wrong. The Steelers are notoriously cheap. They went as cheap a route as you could go a year ago at the quarterback position, and weren’t willing to give Justin Fields $10 million more to match the Jets' offer this offseason. However, it should also be said that if Pickens weren’t such a constant headache, he likely would have gotten paid. The continuous on-field outbursts, combined with reportedly being late for meetings and showing up late for the team’s Christmas Day game, became too much. So, instead of getting a long-term extension, the Steelers decided he was a nuisance that became more of an issue than what he was worth, which is why the Steelers traded for DK Metcalf.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...s-on-his-way-out-of-pittsburgh-dk-metcalf-nfl
 
Former Steelers safety Damontae Kazee signs with Browns

AFC Wild Card Playoffs: Pittsburgh Steelers v Baltimore Ravens

Kara Durrette/Getty Images

The Steelers basically made a swap of safeties with the Browns

Former Pittsburgh Steelers safety Damontae Kazee is signing with the Cleveland Browns, according to Mike Garafolo of NFL Network. The Steelers signed former Browns safety Juan Thornhill earlier this offseason, so both sides basically swapped safeties.


The #Browns are signing veteran S Damontae Kazee today, source says. After three years with the #Steelers, Kazee heads elsewhere in the AFC North. pic.twitter.com/mGmImWwM5c

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) May 12, 2025

Kazee was drafted in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons. He played in all 16 games from 2017-19, and he led the NFL in interceptions in 2018 with seven. He joined the Dallas Cowboys in 2021, spending a year with Dallas before joining the Steelers in 2022. He had five interceptions in three seasons with Pittsburgh and will now likely be the third safety in the rotation behind Grant Delpit and Ronnie Hickman.

The Browns have now added three former Steelers to their roster this offseason. They traded for quarterback Kenny Pickett back in March and also signed wide receiver Diontae Johnson as a potential impact player in their offense. We’ll know in a matter of days when the Browns and their horde of former Steelers will play Pittsburgh when the NFL schedule is announced.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...ae-kazee-signs-with-browns-damontae-kazee-nfl
 
Steelers sign 3 following rookie minicamp, release RB

COLLEGE FOOTBALL: JAN 09 CFP Semifinal Capital One Orange Bowl - Notre Dame vs Penn State

Cornerback Max Hurleman #37 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish runs downfield on punt coverage during the Penn State Nittany Lions versus Notre Dame Fighting Irish College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Capital One Orange Bowl on January 9, 2025, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. | Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Pittsburgh signs three rookie minicamp tryouts.

The Steelers announced a flurry of roster moves Monday, signing three players following rookie minicamp tryouts and releasing running back Aaron Shampklin to make room.

The signings are former Notre Dame running back Max Hurleman, former Ohio State and Indianapolis Colts running back Trey Sermon, and former Lindenwood offensive lineman Gareth Warren.


We have signed RB Max Hurleman, RB Trey Sermon, OT Gareth Warren, and released RB Aaron Shampklin. @BordasLaw https://t.co/V4z7R0qHR6

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) May 12, 2025

The Sermon signing was previously reported.

Hurleman, although announced as a running back, has worn a number of hats over his football career. Listed as a cornerback at Notre Dame, he largely played on special teams, logging snaps on coverage units and also returning punts.


IRISH BALL

Max Hurleman with a Senior Day moment on the first play of the game #GoIrish☘️ pic.twitter.com/Fx39PO5K4i

— Notre Dame Football (@NDFootball) November 16, 2024

Before transferring to the Fighting Irish, he played four years at Colgate: three as a running back and one at wide receiver.

The 5’11, 202-pound athlete ran a 4.68-second 40-yard dash at his pro day along with a 36” vertical and 13 reps on the bench press. In 2024, he recorded 13 total tackles and 23 punt returns with a six-yard average. Over his Colgate career, he recorded 814 rushing yards on 194 attempts, 80 receptions for 841 yards, and four touchdowns.

Warren, listed at 6’6, 328 pounds, started 36 games in college at left guard and left tackle. He was a first-team all-conference selection in 2024, helping the Lindenwood Lions rush for a conference-leading 173.7 yards per game.


Lindenwood's LT Gareth Warren @gwarren808 was recently named to the @ShrineBowl 1000 watch list and it's easy to see why.

He is naturally powerful and savvy with his hands. His best position may be at guard going forward.#FCSFootball #NFLDraft #BurnTheWood #LoyalToTheLou pic.twitter.com/pe4SKUmbh5

— Bryan (@BGauvin23) August 1, 2024

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...rb-max-hurleman-trey-sermon-gareth-warren-nfl
 
Cam Heyward sends message to Steelers fans after George Pickens trade

Pittsburgh Steelers v Cincinnati Bengals

Photo by Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images

Heyward tells fans to be patient

The Pittsburgh Steelers traded away former second-round pick George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys last week. While many in the fan base see the trade as a good move, some have been very critical. Steelers captain Cam Heyward weighed in on the move in the latest episode of his podcast Not Just Football.

“I woke up the next morning, and he had been traded,” Heyward said. “Was I surprised? Yeah, but the game is the game. I know it benefits both teams. We get another third-round pick. They get a wide receiver to go along with CeeDee Lamb. Would I have liked to see George and DK play together? Yeah, but hopefully there’s something in the works.”

Heyward added a message for Steelers fans - stay

“I’m sure guys have talked about it, and this is a PSA for all Steeler fans: don’t panic,” Heyward said. “Stay patient, we’ll get to work. I think sometimes we can jump off the ship and think the ship is sinking. We got work to do. And, you know, whoever won the offseason isn’t gonna win the regular season, is not gonna win the Super Bowl.”

There is plenty of time for moves to be made, and we’ll see if and when the Steelers make those moves before the season kicks off.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...after-george-pickens-trade-dallas-cowboys-nfl
 
Can you guess this Steelers receiver in today’s in-5 trivia game?

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Think you can figure out which Steelers player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Steelers fans! We’re back for another day of the Behind the Steel Curtain in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

Today’s Behind the Steel Curtain in-5 game​


If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​


Tuesday, May 13, 2025
Monday, May 12, 2025
Sunday, May 11, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​


NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Behind the Steel Curtain in-5 instructions​


The goal of the game is to guess the correct Steelers player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2025/5/14/24429940/sb-nation-steelers-daily-trivia-in-5
 
Steelers 2025 Schedule: Full Slate of Games For Pittsburgh

NFL: OCT 20 Jets at Steelers

Photo by Mark Alberti/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Pittsburgh Steelers complete 2025 schedule

The Pittsburgh Steelers schedule is officially here. No need to listen to me chat, here we go:

Pre-season​

  • Week 1: at Jacksonville Jaguars (Aug. 9, TBD)
  • Week 2: vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Aug. 16, 7:00 PM EST, KDKA)
  • Week 3: at Carolina Panthers (Aug 21, 7:00 PM EST)

Regular Season​


What game are you looking forward to most?

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...pittsburgh-new-york-jets-baltimore-ravens-nfl
 
Steelers 2025 game-by-game picks

Kansas City Chiefs v Pittsburgh Steelers

Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images

Predicting every game on the Steelers’ schedule

With the Pittsburgh Steelers’ schedule now known, I’ll do what I do every year and predict every game on their schedule the week of the schedule release.

NOTE: These predictions are under the assumption that Aaron Rodgers is signing with the Steelers

Week 1: at New York Jets​


In the matchup of duel-revenge games with Justin Fields and (likely) Aaron Rodgers, the Steelers will come out on top over first-year head coach Aaron Glenn.

Final Prediction: Steelers 20, Jets 16

Week 2: vs. Seattle Seahawks​


I’m very low on the Seahawks. Getting rid of Geno Smith, but signing Sam Darnold, felt like a lateral move at best. DK Metcalf will also be very motivated to defeat his old team.

Final Prediction: Steelers 23, Seahawks 13

Week 3: at New England Patriots​


The Steelers have lost eight of their last nine against the Patriots, and haven’t won in New England since 2008. The Patriots will be a playoff team in 2025, and this is where the Steelers suffer their first loss.

Final Prediction: Patriots 23, Steelers 17

Week 4: vs. Minnesota Vikings (Ireland)​


I seem to be lower on the Vikings than the consensus. J.J. McCarthy is practically a rookie, and there is no way a 14-win magic carpet ride takes place again.

Final Prediction: Steelers 17, Vikings 13

Week 5: BYE​

Week 6: vs. Cleveland Browns​


Maybe Kenny Pickett will start against the Steelers (fingers crossed).

Final Prediction: Steelers 27, Browns 13

Week 7: at Cincinnati Bengals​


The Bengals are my pick to win the AFC North. Baltimore has won it two years in a row, and no team has ever won the division three straight times. That offense will continue to be deadly, and the defense will improve by default.

Final Prediction: Bengals 28, Steelers 20

Week 8: vs. Green Bay Packers​


The Packers are my pick to get the No. 1 seed in the NFC, and they’ll hand the Steelers their second straight loss.

Final Prediction: Packers 27, Steelers 24

Week 9: vs. Indianapolis Colts​


The Colts have had the Steelers’ number over the last two years. That ends this season, as Pittsburgh will probably be playing Daniel Jones at this point.

Final Prediction: Steelers 30, Colts 17

Week 10: at Los Angeles Chargers​


The last time the Steelers played the Chargers in Los Angeles, Ben Roethlisberger had one of his last great quarterback duels with Justin Herbert, and the Steelers lost 41-37. It’ll be a toss-up, but I’ll give the edge to the Chargers at home.

Final Prediction: Chargers 24, Steelers 22

Week 11: vs. Cincinnati Bengals​


The Steelers get a big division win at home after losing three of their last four.

Final Prediction: Steelers 27, Bengals 23

Week 12: at Chicago Bears​


Aaron Rodgers still owns the Bears, even though Chicago will be a very fun team in 2025.

Final Prediction: Steelers 31, Bears 27

Week 13: vs. Buffalo Bills​


The reigning MVP Josh Allen will come into Pittsburgh and leave with a win.

Final Prediction: Bills 28, Steelers 17

Week 14: at Baltimore Ravens​


The Ravens will win their third straight game over Pittsburgh, causing the Steelers to lose two straight against AFC powerhouses.

Final Prediction: Ravens 26, Steelers 20

Week 15: vs. Miami Dolphins​


Bold take, but this will be Tua Tagovailoa’s last year as the Dolphins quarterback. Miami can’t win in cold weather, so pencil this in for a Steelers win.

Final Prediction: Steelers 34, Dolphins 20

Week 16: at Detroit Lions​


`I’d love to pick the Steelers to win here, and think they definitely could, considering I also believe the Lions will take a small step back in 2025. However, I’ll give them the slight edge in this one.

Final Prediction: Lions 20, Steelers 16

Week 17: at Cleveland Browns​


The Steelers seem to split with the Browns every year, but I’m picking them to sweep in 2025. It may come back to bite me, but that’s what I’m going with.

Final Prediction: Steelers 17, Browns 9

Week 18: vs. Baltimore Ravens​


The Steelers get their win back and once again finish with 10 wins.

Final Prediction: Steelers 19, Ravens 16

Final Record Prediction: 10-7


It feels like the Steelers have lived at 10 wins over the last handful of years. Maybe it’s because if they finish 10-7, it will be the third straight time they’ve done it

While the Jets weren’t good in 2024, Rodgers still had 28 touchdown passes, which is the number MVP Josh Allen finished with, for what it’s worth. That said, I believe the Steelers will finish 10-7 again, and maybe even steal an additional game to get to 11 wins.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...avens-cleveland-browns-cincinnati-bengals-nfl
 
Former Steelers Pro Bowler says Mike Tomlin has ‘run stale’ in Pittsburgh

AFC Wild Card Playoffs: Pittsburgh Steelers v Baltimore Ravens

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

One of Mike Tomlin’s biggest defenders has finally come around

No matter where you fall in the Mike Tomlin debate, it’s fair to say that Pittsburgh Steelers fans have a much better grasp on things than those on the outside looking in. Eight years without a playoff win has caused Tomlin’s approval rating to tank, and whatever goodwill he has left with fans is waning. Even one of Tomlin’s biggest defenders seems to think that it’s time for a change.

Former Steelers safety Ryan Clark has been Tomlin’s largest unwavering supporter in the national media. He said Tomlin is “Unfireable,” which in it of itself is a ludicrous statement that holds Tomlin to no accountability. However, in the same breath, Clark said it may be time for Tomlin and Pittsburgh to part ways.

“I believe Mike Tomlin should coach and be a fresh voice somewhere else,” Clark said on First Take. “As great as a coach he is, and he’s a first-ballot Hall of Famer, I believe his voice has run stale there. I believe he’s allowed that team to reach the highest of heights they’re going to reach unless they can get a top-tier quarterback.”


"As great as a coach he is, and he's a first-ballot Hall of Famer, I believe his voice has run stale [in Pittsburgh]."@Realrclark25 believes Mike Tomlin needs to have his "Andy Reid-Kansas City run" on another team pic.twitter.com/WQMF44pjPe

— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) May 15, 2025

It does look all but guaranteed the Steelers will be eyeing that top 10 quarterback Clark referenced in next year’s draft. The team’s painfully low ceiling has been evident over the last number of years, though. And while a lot of that can be attributed to the lack of a franchise quarterback, a good deal of it, too, can be put on Tomlin for his lack of progression and refusal to evolve. What 2025 is yet to be seen, but it feels unfortunately predictable, which is what Steelers fans have grown tired of.

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...in-has-run-stale-in-pittsburgh-ryan-clark-nfl
 
Rumor: Steelers pursuing Saints WR Chris Olave

New Orleans Saints v Carolina Panthers

Photo by Matt Kelley/Getty Images

The Steelers are reportedly looking for another wide receiver trade

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made two massive trades involving wide receivers this offseason. In March, they acquired DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a second-round pick and a Day Three pick swap. Two weeks ago, the traded George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2027 Day Three pick swap.

While Pittsburgh arguably upgraded at WR1, they are in a similar spot depth-wise wise to where they were a season ago. They have a veteran who will be there to run block in Robert Woods, who will serve a Van Jefferson-type role. Calvin Austin had a nice year in 2024, but isn’t a full-time boundary option, and Roman Wilson is a big question mark. It’s almost certain that the Steelers will bringing another receiver, whether it be with another trade or a free agent signing. According to reports, though, they are trying to trade for another star.

According to Adam Crowley of 93.7 The Fan in Pittsburgh, the Steelers are pursuing New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave. Crowley simply posted “Chris Olave” on X, and then followed it up with a more clear rumor/report.

“To be clear. I had someone who would be in the know text me ‘Chris Olave.’”


To be clear. I had someone who would be in the know text me "Chris Olave." https://t.co/QQx3vafxVp

— Adam Crowley (@_adamcrowley) May 16, 2025

Kevin Adams of the Barstool Sports Steel Here Podcast followed up with a post of his own on the Olave rumors.

“Update. Adding a little light here to Chris Olave. Per sources: ‘Trying. Interested. But not close.’”


Update. Adding a little light here to Chris Olave. Per sources.

“Trying. Interested. But not close.” https://t.co/oIrwXDoi6o

— Kevin Adams (@KevinAdams26) May 16, 2025

Olave would certainly move the needle. While he missed significant time with a concussion in 2024, he had a very productive 2023 season with 87 catches and over 1,100 yards. He would be the perfect X receiver that can win at all three levels, while Metcalf operates more as the deep threat 1b receiver.

Update: Nick Farabaugh of PennLive reports that Pittsburgh is interested in an Olave trade, but they don’t expect much to happen.


Sources say the Steelers have called the Saints about Chris Olave and are interested, but they don't expect much to happen here.

That and more in this piece about 'What I'm hearing on the Steelers and Chris Olave'https://t.co/cVrkaMAafG

— Nick Farabaugh (@FarabaughFB) May 16, 2025

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...-new-orleans-saints-dk-metcalf-george-pickens
 
Friday Night Happy Hour: Schedule Release Edition

NFL: Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers

Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Pop open a cold one and stay awhile.

Welcome back to BTSC’s Friday night open thread:

  1. The Steelers' full schedule was released this week. Which game are you most anticipating? What is your record prediction for the Steelers in 2025?
  2. If you could somehow travel in time to attend any NFL game in history, which game would you choose?
  3. Do you ever travel to any of the Steelers' away games? If yes, what is your strategy for which ones to attend? If your answer was no, is there any scenario where you would? What would it take?
  4. The Steelers travel to Dublin during Week 4 to play the Vikings on September 28. Have any of our readers ever visited Ireland? It’s on the shortlist of places I’d like to visit someday. If you’ve ever been, share your travel stories and recommendations!
  5. Next weekend, I’ll be going with my family to see a Willie Nelson and Bob Dylan concert. That sets up our song of the night, one of my favorites from Willie and Merle Haggard: “Pancho & Lefty”

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.c...day-night-happy-hour-schedule-release-edition
 
Can you guess this Steelers linebacker in today’s in-5 trivia game?

btsc_social.0.png


Think you can figure out which Steelers player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Steelers fans! We’re back for another day of the Behind the Steel Curtain in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

Today’s Behind the Steel Curtain in-5 game​


If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​


Friday, May 16, 2025
Thursday, May 15, 2025
Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​


NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Behind the Steel Curtain in-5 instructions​


The goal of the game is to guess the correct Steelers player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2025/5/17/24432028/sb-nation-steelers-daily-trivia-in-5
 
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