Strong preseason showing will increase expectations for Steelers

Even though it has only been two preseason games there is still a lot to like about what the Pittsburgh Steelers have put on film this summer. 

That was especially true on Saturday night in a 27-15 win over one of the NFL's best teams — the Buffalo Bills — where the significantly outplayed their starters when they were on the field.

That sort of performance could significantly raise expectations and put some added pressure on the team going into the regular season.

The Steelers have mostly been viewed this offseason as a middle-of-the-pack AFC team that might have a shot to compete for a wild card spot. Given their 9-8 record a year ago and the fact they have not won a playoff game since 2016 that is probably fair. 

But there a few variables that could significantly improve their chances. 

The most significant of those is second-year quarterback Kenny Pickett. His development and progress will change everything for the Steelers. If he becomes a top-tier starter, the Steelers are going to have an opportunity to be really good, really fast. If he doesn't, then they are going to struggle. 

So far this preseason he has looked outstanding in his limited work, completing over 81% of his passes for 114 yards, two touchdowns and zero interceptions. Both touchdowns have also been on plays of more than 25 yards, a significant change from last year's methodical offensive approach.

Improvements on the offensive line could also improve the running game. The Steelers used their first-round pick on Broderick Jones and also signed left guard Isaac Seumalo to help bolster what was the biggest weakness on the offense the past two years. 

Seumalo was one of the top interior lineman on the free agent market and already showed what sort of impact he can make on Jaylen Warren's 62-yard touchdown run on Saturday. 

Then there is the defense. As long as players like T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick and Cam Heyward can stay healthy they have three impact players that are among the best at their respective positions and a group that is significantly deeper than last year's top-heavy unit. 

New general manager Omar Khan and assistant Andy Weidl spent the entire offseason bolstering the depth on the defensive line and at outside linebacker. 

So far, those moves are looking like significant improvements. 

There is always a fine line between making too much of the preseason and being realistic, but the Steelers are starting from a decent spot (a winning record a year ago), made big improvements at their biggest areas of need and have a strong defense that can be the foundation of a potential playoff team. 

Given the way they played so far in the preseason, there is reason to believe they have a chance to be a very good team.