Former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jerome Bettis believes the team's 2026 roster represents a major upgrade over last year's squad. He credited general manager Omar Khan and new head coach Mike McCarthy with adding key talent across both sides of the ball. Bettis made the comments in an interview with The Action Network.
Bettis, a Pro Football Hall of Famer, told interviewer DJ Siddiqi that the Steelers are "10 times better" this year. He pointed to insufficient talent as a factor in the team's 2025 Wild Card loss to the Houston Texans.
The Steelers signed wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., running back Rico Dowdle and cornerback Jamel Dean in free agency. They also drafted Daylen Everette and added safety depth with Jaquan Brisker and Darnell Savage. Offensive line and tight end reinforcements were secured as well.
Bettis said the additions and McCarthy's offensive background should produce a stronger unit in 2026. He noted the team addressed needs on both offense and defense after last season's struggles.
Bettis stopped short of calling the Steelers Super Bowl contenders and said more talent could still be added before the season begins in September.