The Pittsburgh Steelers bolstered their roster through free agency and a key trade during the offseason, positioning them among the NFL's top contenders for a Super Bowl appearance, according to The Athletic. General manager Omar Khan oversaw the additions amid uncertainty at quarterback with Aaron Rodgers. The team holds the most picks in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.
Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Omar Khan led a transformative offseason, marking the franchise's first head coaching change in 19 years with the arrival of Mike McCarthy. The team traded for wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. to pair with DK Metcalf, strengthening the receiving corps opposite Joey Porter Jr. at cornerback through re-signing Asante Samuel Jr. to a one-year deal and signing Jamel Dean in free agency. Additional veterans Rico Dowdle, Sebastian Joseph-Day, and safety Jaquan Brisker joined the roster, adding depth across positions. Saad Yousuf of The Athletic highlighted the Steelers as one of the league's most improved teams, writing, “The biggest thing is that the Steelers are far from finished. They have 12 picks in this year’s NFL Draft, the most of any team in the NFL. They can still add a lot more young talent or dip into the trade market — or both.” The primary uncertainty remains at quarterback, where 42-year-old Aaron Rodgers has yet to confirm his return after a serviceable but subpar season. These moves have directed the Steelers' trajectory upward heading into the draft, potentially elevating them to playoff contenders in the McCarthy era.