Through 16 weeks of NFL football, the Pittsburgh Steelers have stayed generally competitive. They have a winning record, albeit an 8-7 one, and are still in contention for a postseason position despite their modest prospects. Their defense is the primary cause behind this.
To put it mildly, the Steelers’ offensive has been abysmal. A squad with only 257 points and 24 total touchdowns will not be able to compete at the highest level. Fortunately, the Pittsburgh defense has remained strong, allowing only 291 points so far, ranking among the best in the NFL.
Pittsburgh’s run defense stands out, having only allowed eight rushing scores compared to 21 throwing touchdowns.
Some may argue that they should concentrate on upgrading their offense in free agency, but it’s difficult to overlook a potential target who can help them create sustainability. According to Bleacher Report’s recent free agency predictions for all NFL clubs, the Steelers might sign Buffalo Bills defensive tackle DaQuan Jones to provide a much-needed senior presence for their young players.
“DaQuan Jones has been quiet this season due to an injury that forced him to be placed on injured reserve after only five games.” However, the Bills have extended his practice window, allowing him to return to the field in 2024. “The run-stuffing defensive tackle had 2.5 sacks in his five games prior to the injury and has a relatively clean bill of health outside of the pectoral injury this year,” according to the BR report, explaining why Pittsburgh could use someone like Jones.
“The Steelers have some young interior defenders who should step up next season, but they will still need some veteran reinforcements.”
PFF expects DaQuan Jones to sign a fully guaranteed one-year contract worth $6 million. And, given his performance with the Buffalo Bills thus far, he could be a good fit for the Pittsburgh Steelers if they can land him.
In 2024, the Pittsburgh Steelers will face additional challenges.
Aside from what they’ll do with their roster, the Pittsburgh Steelers will have to answer one major question: What will they do with head coach Mike Tomlin?
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This season, Tomlin’s job status has been a key conversation issue. Many supporters have wanted the Steelers’ top brass to fire the experienced head coach after the team’s inconsistent and often frustrating performance.
However, there have been different claims over Tomlin’s fate. Several reports have linked him to different head coaching positions. Given his popularity among players, if Pittsburgh lets him go, he’ll be one of the top candidates for other teams.
On the other side, there have been whispers that the Steelers may also extend him.
Perhaps, before making a roster move in the offseason, Pittsburgh will need to address their coaching situation to ensure they are on the correct track.
