The Pittsburgh Steelers remained at No. 21 in ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell's rankings of offensive playmakers ahead of the 2026 season despite several additions.
Barnwell combined running backs, receivers and tight ends into one group for the assessment. The Steelers added receiver Michael Pittman Jr. via trade from the Colts, signed running back Rico Dowdle and selected wide receiver Germie Bernard in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Barnwell wrote that Pittman is a good fit for quarterback Aaron Rodgers but a bad fit for what the Steelers need in a receiver who can stretch the field. He noted that second-round pick Bernard should upgrade the position over Calvin Austin III.
The group ranks between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Kansas City Chiefs. Barnwell said the running backs and tight ends, including Jaylen Warren, Darnell Washington and Pat Freiermuth, provide strength but the team still needs a stronger season from receiver DK Metcalf.
