Analyst: Steelers HC Mike Tomlin's remarkable streak will continue

Many pundits believe Steelers coach Mike Tomlin's 16-year streak of never having a losing season in Pittsburgh is over. NFL.com columnist and CBS Sports host Adam Schein isn't one of them.

“I don't know if this team will hit the postseason, but I do know one thing: Tomlin's non-losing streak will continue, as Pittsburgh will win at least nine games,” Schein writes.

The Steelers' last losing season came in 2003, one year before they drafted quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, a probable Hall of Famer. Per USA Today, the Steelers will slide below .500 this year. Pittsburgh's projected win total is 7.5 games. 

The Steelers overachieved last season, winning nine games and finishing second in the AFC North. The Steelers' biggest challenge this season is overcoming divisional rivals. The Bengals are defending AFC champions, and the Ravens should be in the mix if QB Lamar Jackson stays healthy. 

The Steelers' roster lacks the name recognition of their Super Bowl champions, but Pittsburgh has playmakers on both sides of the ball.

Outside linebacker TJ Watt earned NFL Defensive player of the Year in 2021, tying the league record for most sacks in a season (22.5). Second-year running back Najee Harris rushed for 1,200 yards as a rookie, fourth best in the league. 

Longtime star Roethlisberger. immobile in his final few seasons, retired. But the Steelers' quarterback play could improve with newcomers Mitch Trubisky and rookie Kenny Pickett.