Former quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has released his annual prediction for the Pittsburgh Steelers on his Footbahlin podcast, forecasting a 12-5 record for the 2026 season.
Roethlisberger cited several factors for the improved outlook from last year's 11-6 forecast. He pointed to quarterback Aaron Rodgers thriving in a familiar offense, an improved offensive line and key additions at skill positions. The predictions include wins in Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons, Week 3 versus the Cincinnati Bengals and Week 5 at home against the Indianapolis Colts. Losses are expected in Week 2 at the New England Patriots, Week 6 at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Week 11 at the Philadelphia Eagles. Roethlisberger sees the Steelers finishing strong with victories in the final six games, including matchups against the Baltimore Ravens and Carolina Panthers. He described the Ravens as a team whose window has closed. The full game-by-game breakdown covers all 17 weeks, with the Steelers entering the playoffs on a six-game win streak under his outlook.