Fixing the Steelers Offense: Top 4 Offseason Priorities

[hawaiiansteeler]

Fixing the Steelers Offense: Top 4 Offseason Priorities

The Pittsburgh Steelers need to fix their offense before the 2021 season, and it starts with these four changes.

NOAH STRACKBEINFEB 1, 2021

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers know some of what the future holds, but there is plenty of uncertainty as they wait for the offseason to begin.

This is what we know so far. The Steelers want quarterback Ben Roethlisberger back but need to adjust his $41.25 million cap hit. Roethlisberger and the team will reportedly meet following the Super Bowl and discuss ways to lessen the salary blow for the 38-year-old.

Chances are Bud Dupree isn't headed back to Pittsburgh, as he laughed off the idea of a one-year, $6 million deal to return to the Steelers. JuJu Smith-Schuster will likely join him as he interacts with fans about potential landing spots in free agency.

Center Maurkice Pouncey hasn't announced his retirement decision, but expectations are that he will hang up his cleats and move on from the NFL this winter.

Then, there are the guesses. James Conner is likely gone and will hit the open market. Matt Feiler, Cameron Sutton, Mike Hilton, Tyson Alualu, Robert Spillane, Alejandro Villanueva, Zach Banner, Marcus Allen and others can end up on either side of the free agency decision.

So, what's top of the list for the Steelers right now? As they navigate into the offseason, their big board highlights needs they believe they'll have and starts with replacing a Hall of Famer.

1. Find a Center

to read rest of article:

https://www.si.com/nfl/steelers/gm-report/pittsburgh-steelers-offensive-offseason-priorities

[Lloydwoodsonjr]

Steps 1 through 5: Make Ben 5 years younger.

[EzraTank]

If they can pickup a mobile QB in round #2 that has a potential then you grab him, but round #1 has to be spent on offensive line. This has to be Ben's final year no matter what. But if you get a guy like Jalen Hurts in round #2 (like the Eagles did) then you start to run in plays like the Saints do with Hill.

[Mojouw]

If they can pickup a mobile QB in round #2 that has a potential then you grab him, but round #1 has to be spent on offensive line. This has to be Ben's final year no matter what. But if you get a guy like Jalen Hurts in round #2 (like the Eagles did) then you start to run in plays like the Saints do with Hill.

If they were to go QB in Round #1 and then grabbed the best center in the draft in Round #2...I think that might work out...

[RunNGun]

If they were to go QB in Round #1 and then grabbed the best center in the draft in Round #2...I think that might work out...

Imo, a QB in rd 1 will be a reach. Stock the Oline and get a RB, so in the 2022 draft our rookie QB has a running game to work with.

- - - Updated - - -

What's bad though is they literally need every position on offense. They could even use a WR. That room is full of #2's and has been since AB left. Obviously, I think they'll ignore that position til the mid rounds or later.

[Mojouw]

Imo, a QB in rd 1 will be a reach. Stock the Oline and get a RB, so in the 2022 draft our rookie QB has a running game to work with.

- - - Updated - - -

What's bad though is they literally need every position on offense. They could even use a WR. That room is full of #2's and has been since AB left. Obviously, I think they'll ignore that position til the mid rounds or later.

It all depends on the QB and their evaluation of him. I suspect with so many teams looking for an upgrade at the starting QB position, that all the "big"names will go well before the Steelers pick. But say...just for sake of argument...that Lance drops on draft day. Everyone starts to question his time off, lack of starts, level of competition, rawness, etc. And he sits there at their slot...I don't know how they could even consider passing that up.

Now drafting, Jones, Newman, or Mond in the first round just to say you addressed the position...that could backfire.

[Born2Steel]

Keep adding TJ Watt/Chase Claypool level players to this team with 1st and 2nd round picks is key to maintaining success.

I think the Steelers are headed to Mason Rudolph after Ben retires. His 2nd contract is still going to be very team friendly since MR hasn't really done anything to be that valued on the open market.

The run game is to be the focus this offseason per Mr. Rooney. That probably means OL as well as RB upgrades, and TE most likely too.

There will need to be some focus on the defensive secondary. Anybody know for sure who is playing the slot CB position?

Depth is needed at all levels of the defense.

The WR room is a couple of twisted ankles away from being completely empty.

Good thing Colbert has 8 or 9 picks to use this draft.

[Born2Steel]

Just saw that Cam Robinson(LT Jags/Bama) is an UFA this offseason. 26 years old. Could be a long term fix at the LT spot. Thoughts???

[Steeler-in-west]

I’m all into building the O-line and RB (TE too if possible) positions through the draft (OT, C, RB, TE) and restructuring salary/retirement on offense (pouncey) to keep the defense as intact as possible for the upcoming season. Go with Ben and Rudolph in 21, give them as much support with the running game, rebuilt o-line and the stout defense and better playcalling. If we make noise in the playoffs or better great, then go with Rudolph as the successor to Ben in 22; we either stay competitive or we upgrade the QB position though the draft or FA in 2023.

[Fire Goodell]

They need a run game. 32nd just isn't 'not cutting it', it's embarrassing

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

Just saw that Cam Robinson(LT Jags/Bama) is an UFA this offseason. 26 years old. Could be a long term fix at the LT spot. Thoughts???

Salary cap room to sign a LT?

[Born2Steel]

Salary cap room to sign a LT?

If I have to pay for it...no. Trades can be made though.

Understand, I am not calling for anything to happen at all. I am asking a question, asking opinions, opening dialogue with a possible upgrade option.

[Rotorhead]

Keep adding TJ Watt/Chase Claypool level players to this team with 1st and 2nd round picks is key to maintaining success.

I think the Steelers are headed to Mason Rudolph after Ben retires. His 2nd contract is still going to be very team friendly since MR hasn't really done anything to be that valued on the open market.

The run game is to be the focus this offseason per Mr. Rooney. That probably means OL as well as RB upgrades, and TE most likely too.

There will need to be some focus on the defensive secondary. Anybody know for sure who is playing the slot CB position?

Depth is needed at all levels of the defense.

The WR room is a couple of twisted ankles away from being completely empty.

Good thing Colbert has 8 or 9 picks to use this draft.

I am hoping they can find a way to keep Hilton for the slot CB.

[Born2Steel]

I am hoping they can find a way to keep Hilton for the slot CB.

Maybe they can. I think if they do keep one it will be Sutton though.

[teegre]

Just saw that Cam Robinson(LT Jags/Bama) is an UFA this offseason. 26 years old. Could be a long term fix at the LT spot. Thoughts???

That totally seems like a Colbert type of FA pickup. A highly-rated draft pick who plays "okay" for a few years. We acquire him for "less than market value" and suddenly, he plays up to his original draft potential (James Farrior, Joe Haden, Tyson Alualu).

[Rotorhead]

Maybe they can. I think if they do keep one it will be Sutton though.

I am torn, Sutton is a solid defender with better physical numbers, but Hilton is a playmaker with the “it” factor. Honestly I would probably be fine with either, just happier with Hilton.

[Rotorhead]

Imo, a QB in rd 1 will be a reach. Stock the Oline and get a RB, so in the 2022 draft our rookie QB has a running game to work with.

- - - Updated - - -

What's bad though is they literally need every position on offense. They could even use a WR. That room is full of #2's and has been since AB left. Obviously, I think they'll ignore that position til the mid rounds or later.

I think Claypool will be a top 10 WR next season, he has the tools and with a year under his belt he will only be better.

[Mojouw]

Maybe they can. I think if they do keep one it will be Sutton though.

There is a scenario where Joe Haden is cut loose and they keep BOTH Hilton and Sutton. While I do not think it is likely as it is not the Steelers style, I do believe the math works.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

If I have to pay for it...no. Trades can be made though.

Understand, I am not calling for anything to happen at all. I am asking a question, asking opinions, opening dialogue with a possible upgrade option.

I just dont see how they do it financially and keep some of the guys they want that are already on the team.

I think the best move is to move Okorafor to LT. Looks like they intend to sign Banner back, so he is the RT and then I think they look for another OT in the draft(Eichenberg, Cosmi, Tevin Jenkins, Dillon Radunz, Jalen Mayfield, Spencer Brown), while rounding out the 4th OT from guys on the roster like John Legule or Aviante Collins.

[Shoes]

There is a scenario where Joe Haden is cut loose and they keep BOTH Hilton and Sutton. While I do not think it is likely as it is not the Steelers style, I do believe the math works.

If the math worked I would cut Haden in a second to keep Hilton & Sutton.

[teegre]

There is a scenario where Joe Haden is cut loose and they keep BOTH Hilton and Sutton. While I do not think it is likely as it is not the Steelers style, I do believe the math works.

As you said, it is not the Steelers way (to cut a beloved player). Plus, it sends the wrong message to future free agents: "Come to Pittsburgh, where we will cut you as soon as we have a cheaper replacement."

[Born2Steel]

I just dont see how they do it financially and keep some of the guys they want that are already on the team.

I think the best move is to move Okorafor to LT. Looks like they intend to sign Banner back, so he is the RT and then I think they look for another OT in the draft(Eichenberg, Cosmi, Tevin Jenkins, Dillon Radunz, Jalen Mayfield, Spencer Brown), while rounding out the 4th OT from guys on the roster like John Legule or Aviante Collins.

When Banner gets re-signed that would give us 5 OL. I don't know anything about the PS guys because we never see them play. Maybe there is depth from there? And, I don't really know how well Robinson has played or if the Steelers would even consider him an upgrade. I do get the feeling AV is gone. Banner and maybe Hawkins would be brought back instead. It's the quality of depth that is a main concern for me. We have seen the offense fall off a cliff 2 years in a row now. 1 because Ben got hurt and the 2nd because of OL injuries. My philosophy is you can win with solid line play and so-so skills players.

After all that...is Robinson even a player to consider if there were no cap issues?

[Mojouw]

As you said, it is not the Steelers way (to cut a beloved player). Plus, it sends the wrong message to future free agents: "Come to Pittsburgh, where we will cut you as soon as we have a cheaper replacement."

Agreed. BUT...the 2021 cap structure is totally unprecedented. The cap has remained flat, but never shrank before. Ever. So paying Haden top CB money really isn't that good of an idea either...I like Joe Haden. I still think Haden can play in the NFL...but he isn't a $15 million+ a year CB anymore. His Average Annual Value makes him the #15 most expensive CB per year in the league. That puts him in the top tier of the entire league - and he may not even be the best CB on his own team.

It would be a cold and merciless decision and could have unintended ripple effects in 2021 and beyond, but there is a clinical and logical case to be made that Haden is too expensive for what he is at this point in his career. If his name wasn't "Joe Haden top end draft pick" would anyone want to pay him top tier CB money?

[Steeler-in-west]

There is a scenario where Joe Haden is cut loose and they keep BOTH Hilton and Sutton. While I do not think it is likely as it is not the Steelers style, I do believe the math works.

It also depends on who the Steelers think is the better CB going into next year. It’s probably still Haden over Sutton. If we’re in win now mode, Haden stays.

[Born2Steel]

Agreed. BUT...the 2021 cap structure is totally unprecedented. The cap has remained flat, but never shrank before. Ever. So paying Haden top CB money really isn't that good of an idea either...I like Joe Haden. I still think Haden can play in the NFL...but he isn't a $15 million+ a year CB anymore. His Average Annual Value makes him the #15 most expensive CB per year in the league. That puts him in the top tier of the entire league - and he may not even be the best CB on his own team.

It would be a cold and merciless decision and could have unintended ripple effects in 2021 and beyond, but there is a clinical and logical case to be made that Haden is too expensive for what he is at this point in his career. If his name wasn't "Joe Haden top end draft pick" would anyone want to pay him top tier CB money?

If you use the Haden money to sign back Sutton and Hilton the CB room becomes Sutton, Hilton, Nelson, and Layne. And whatever Pierre is. Are we comfortable enough to move into the draft with this?

[Mojouw]

If you use the Haden money to sign back Sutton and Hilton the CB room becomes Sutton, Hilton, Nelson, and Layne. And whatever Pierre is. Are we comfortable enough to move into the draft with this?

We saw a bit of that exact CB room this past season. It was acceptable? You could get nuts and say have that CB room + a draft pick, even a first rounder maybe Joe Horn's kid?

[Born2Steel]

We saw a bit of that exact CB room this past season. It was acceptable? You could get nuts and say have that CB room + a draft pick, even a first rounder maybe Joe Horn's kid?

I have toyed with the idea of Jaycee Horn or Asante Samuel Jr being an early pick for the Steelers.

[Mojouw]

I have toyed with the idea of Jaycee Horn or Asante Samuel Jr being an early pick for the Steelers.

I think either would be a good fit. Honestly, I am more worried about the CB position group than I am the OT position group.

[Born2Steel]

I think either would be a good fit. Honestly, I am more worried about the CB position group than I am the OT position group.

I hear you. Once the OT room becomes more than just the 1 guy I will be right there with you. I just know the FO is going to get things lined up before the draft, but until they do I'm still nervous.

[El-Gonzo Jackson]

When Banner gets re-signed that would give us 5 OL. I don't know anything about the PS guys because we never see them play. Maybe there is depth from there? And, I don't really know how well Robinson has played or if the Steelers would even consider him an upgrade. I do get the feeling AV is gone. Banner and maybe Hawkins would be brought back instead. It's the quality of depth that is a main concern for me. We have seen the offense fall off a cliff 2 years in a row now. 1 because Ben got hurt and the 2nd because of OL injuries. My philosophy is you can win with solid line play and so-so skills players.

After all that...is Robinson even a player to consider if there were no cap issues?

Sportrac does some analysis of Cam Robinson's estimated market value. Cam Robinson Contract Breakdowns, Salary Cap Figures, Salaries, Bonuses | Spotrac (https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/jacksonville-jaguars/cam-robinson-21775/market-value/) $11.3 million a season.

No thanks. I'm not even going to discuss Cam Robinson any further.

[teegre]

Agreed. BUT...the 2021 cap structure is totally unprecedented. The cap has remained flat, but never shrank before. Ever. So paying Haden top CB money really isn't that good of an idea either...I like Joe Haden. I still think Haden can play in the NFL...but he isn't a $15 million+ a year CB anymore. His Average Annual Value makes him the #15 most expensive CB per year in the league. That puts him in the top tier of the entire league - and he may not even be the best CB on his own team.

It would be a cold and merciless decision and could have unintended ripple effects in 2021 and beyond, but there is a clinical and logical case to be made that Haden is too expensive for what he is at this point in his career. If his name wasn't "Joe Haden top end draft pick" would anyone want to pay him top tier CB money?

Their "out" would be that it was a strange year... blame COVID!!!

That said, I just don't see them cutting Haden. I could see them restructuring and adding one more year... bringing his cap number down to $10 million.

[Born2Steel]

Sportrac does some analysis of Cam Robinson's estimated market value. Cam Robinson Contract Breakdowns, Salary Cap Figures, Salaries, Bonuses | Spotrac (https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/jacksonville-jaguars/cam-robinson-21775/market-value/) $11.3 million a season.

No thanks. I'm not even going to discuss Cam Robinson any further.

That IS too big of a number for me too.

[hawaiiansteeler]

Steelers GM Kevin Colbert: Pittsburgh's run game wasn't 'good enough' in 2020

Published: Feb 18, 2021
Kevin Patra
Around the NFL Writer

The focus of Pittsburgh Steelers GM Kevin Colbert's message to the media Wednesday was rightfully on his tepid comments regarding signal-caller Ben Roethlisberger. Quarterback wasn't the only position with question marks Colbert touched on, however.

The Steelers general manager noted that regardless of who the quarterback is in 2021, Pittsburgh must get more out of its running game.

"I will look at it from the personnel standpoint," Colbert said of the run game, per the team's official transcript. "And the group of guys we had last year -- the offensive line, the running backs, the wide receivers, the quarterbacks -- it did not produce a good running game. I think schematically, that's up for the coaches and up to coach (Mike) Tomlin to figure that. And my input would be if we need to do certain things schematically, these are the types of players that may be available to help us achieve that."

The Steelers' top four running backs combined for 1,230 rushing yards for the 2020 season. Their lead back, James Conner, compiled 721 yards in 13 games, averaging 4.3 yards per carry, with six TDs. Conner averaged just 2.87 yards after contact for the season, per Pro Football Focus, and lacked lateral explosiveness. With the 25-year-old set to hit free agency, the Steelers' running back room is likely in for a massive overhaul.

Colbert noted that getting more out of the running game needs to be a group improvement, not just about adding different RBs to the equation.

"Again, it is a collective effort," he said. "You can't say the runners weren't good enough, or the quarterbacks weren't good enough, or the line wasn't good enough. To put out the kind of running game we did, no one was good enough. And again, that is a collective effort. We need to be better, quite honestly, just in reference to what Mike (Tomlin) was talking about; we need to finish. And I think having a strong running game helps teams finish in that time of year."

to read rest of article:

https://www.nfl.com/news/steelers-gm-kevin-colbert-run-game-wasnt-good-enough-james-conner

[Rotorhead]

I’m all into building the O-line and RB (TE too if possible) positions through the draft (OT, C, RB, TE) and restructuring salary/retirement on offense (pouncey) to keep the defense as intact as possible for the upcoming season. Go with Ben and Rudolph in 21, give them as much support with the running game, rebuilt o-line and the stout defense and better playcalling. If we make noise in the playoffs or better great, then go with Rudolph as the successor to Ben in 22; we either stay competitive or we upgrade the QB position though the draft or FA in 2023.

I am all for this plan

[Born2Steel]

I’m all into building the O-line and RB (TE too if possible) positions through the draft (OT, C, RB, TE) and restructuring salary/retirement on offense (pouncey) to keep the defense as intact as possible for the upcoming season. Go with Ben and Rudolph in 21, give them as much support with the running game, rebuilt o-line and the stout defense and better playcalling. If we make noise in the playoffs or better great, then go with Rudolph as the successor to Ben in 22; we either stay competitive or we upgrade the QB position though the draft or FA in 2023.

If you can dominate the line of scrimmage offensively and defensively you will win games despite how many superstar skills players you have. Build the OL, DL, and LB corps this season. then build the weapons and secondary next season. QB is a freaking coin toss.

[Shoes]

Sounds like an early OT may not be so early. Colbert & Missi interview.

“The tackles are unusually deep this year. I think we can add players through the draft, and hopefully we’ll be able to do some type of business in free agency, and we’re always gonna look at our own players first”.

[pczach]

Sounds like an early OT may not be so early. Colbert & Missi interview.

“The tackles are unusually deep this year. I think we can add players through the draft, and hopefully we’ll be able to do some type of business in free agency, and we’re always gonna look at our own players first”.


I like the idea of Jalen Mayfield or Tevin Jenkins to the Steelers. Not considered the top-tier, but two guys that I think have a chance to be really, really good players that also bring good run blocking skills to the table. Jenkins also has that nasty disposition where he finishes every play to just after the whistle and doesn't take plays off while trying to bully his opponent.

I think either player would be a good addition here without having to move up to get a higher evaluated player. Maybe a higher rated player drops to them in the first, but there's a good chance one or both of these players will be there in the 1st, and might even be available slightly later if they trade back and can still be available.

I think we know they will be looking at OL in the draft, we just don't know what their big board looks like and how they have players rated. For all we know, the Steelers could be targeting a center like Landon Dickerson or Josh Myers that is projected to go somewhere in the 3rd round by most I've seen. If that's the case, they will be looking for impact players at a positions of need early, and then do whatever they have to do to get specific players they covet later in the draft based on the player ratings.

I know this is all just a guess based on a small quote that may not really mean anything, but it's still fun to think about. :cool:

[Born2Steel]

Only 25 more days until the new league year and we can start hearing what the plan actually may be.

[hawaiiansteeler]

Salary cap room to sign a LT?

I'm not sure how the Steelers are gonna be able to do it, but I have a feeling we might still re-sign AV.

I don't think Banner or Chuks are ready to start at LT, and neither would a rookie draft pick.

[86WARD]

I'm not sure how the Steelers are gonna be able to do it, but I have a feeling we might still re-sign AV.

I don't think Banner or Chuks are ready to start at LT, and neither would a rookie draft pick.

I hope they don’t sign him...he wasn’t good last year.

[pczach]

I hope they don’t sign him...he wasn’t good last year.


He wasn't good at all. If they are interested in bringing him back, that tells me he was playing hurt last year. Because if last year's performance was what he has left, he shouldn't be signed for anywhere near the numbers that we've been hearing mentioned about his worth on the open market.