On this week’s episode of The Steelers Fix podcast, Jeremy Betz and I each shared three priorities for the Steelers to address this offseason. One of my three was contingent on Mike Tomlin potentially leaving, but now that those rumors have been put to rest, I have combined the remaining priorities we discussed on this week’s show. We will discuss each of them below.

If you have not yet listened to this week’s episode, make sure you check it out below!

Finding the Right Offensive Coordinator

Perhaps the biggest hindrance to greater Steelers success in the Mike Tomlin era has been his inability to hire competent staff, most notably at offensive coordinator. Todd Hailey was a solid play caller, but he could not get along with people on any level and was not well respected. Randy Fichtner was incredibly predictable and lacked variety, and Matt Canada did not seem to know offensive concepts in general. Needless to say, poor leadership on the offensive coaching staff has held back the growth of talented running back Najee Harris, underused tight end Pat Freiermuth, and budding superstar George Pickens. The Steelers have to get it right this time if they want to remain a contending team in the coming years.

Exhaust all Resources to Find a Franchise QB

This was Jeremy’s top priority, and it is hard to disagree. Neither Kenny Pickett nor Mason Rudolph have proven enough to be freely given the keys to the offense in 2024. Rudolph could easily find another gig elsewhere and get more money than the Steelers are willing to pay, and he also showed some of his limitations in the Steelers playoff loss to Buffalo. For Pickett, a strong training camp will be paramount, as we have seen very little of him when not under the influence of Matt Canada.

Shore Up Weak Spots On the Offensive Line

The most prevalent weak spots along the offensive line are at center and at right tackle. Mason Cole was a wonderful free-agent addition in 2022, and he provided exactly what the Steelers needed at center at that time. However, mental mistakes and regression in Pat Meyer’s lousy scheme led to Cole playing incredibly poor football. Getting a young center in the draft seems almost inevitable at this point. Broderick Jones was poorly used in 2023, aligning primarily at right tackle. Moving him to his natural position at left tackle should shore the quarterback’s blindside next season, but that will leave a hole on the right side.

Find a True CB2 and Strong Safety

Joey Porter, Jr. is a superstar in the making, but Levi Wallace and Patrick Peterson did not provide enough at cornerback in 2023 to go into 2024 as the CB2. Darius Rush and Cory Trice should definitely get a chance to prove themselves, but adding a veteran or mid-round draft prospect would make a ton of sense. Also, can we bring back Terrell Edmunds? I’ve said my peace on this.

Get Faster/More Athletic in the Middle of the Defense

The Steelers defense is at its best when they have “a dude” at inside linebacker. The Steelers brought in a slew of free agents at the position, but none of them are game-changing players at the position. If a top prospect at the position emerges during the pre-draft process, the Steelers would be wise to give strong consideration to taking that prospect, even if it requires a first-round pick.

What do you believe is the top priority for the Steelers this offseason? Be sure to share your thoughts on this and all things Pittsburgh Steelers in the comment section below!