Projecting Steelers Starting Lineup After Major Offseason Additions

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a few impressive moves during the first wave of free agency. Key additions on both sides of the ball have the team heading in the right direction as they try to contend in 2026.

The Steelers have another chance to add to the group at the 2026 NFL Draft, but right now, the roster is becoming clearer.

This is subject to change after the draft, but right now the Steelers' lineup already looks improved compared to how they finished 2025.

Offense

Quarterback: Will Howard (until Aaron Rodgers signs)
Running Back 1: Jaylen Warren
Running Back 2: Rico Dowdle
Wide Receiver 1: DK Metcalf
Wide Receiver 2: Michael Pittman Jr.
Tight End 1: Pat Freiermuth
Tight End 2: Darnell Washington

The big addition is physical wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., giving the Steelers a dynamic combination on the outside. It should also be enough to entice Aaron Rodgers back to the Steelers. Until then, the quarterback position is Will Howard's to lose.

The running back roles should be similarly structured to how they were in 2025, with newcomer Rico Dowdle set to take on the physical, between the tackle carries.

Offensive Line

Left Tackle: Broderick Jones
Left Guard: Spencer Anderson
Center: Zach Frazier
Right Guard: Mason McCormick
Right Tackle: Troy Fautanu

The right side of this group is fantastic. All three enter their third year of starting together and it might just be the best right side in the AFC, maybe even the NFL.

The left side is still a work in progress, at best. At worst, it's a serious issue. The left guard is less of a concern, as Spencer Anderson has performed well in every role he's been placed in. Left tackle is a completely different story, as the team seems intent on going into the final year of Broderick Jones's contract with him in a starting role. It's one of the team's biggest problems as the 2026 season approaches.