Steelers Who Outperformed, Underperformed vs. Browns

Nov 1, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Cleveland Browns tight end Harold Fannin Jr. (44) is tackled by Pittsburgh Steelers safety Robert Spears-Jennings (28) during the fourth quarter of an NFL game at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Steelers Who Outperformed, Underperformed vs. Browns

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jobe Morrison | Last updated Nov 3, 2026 5:00 PM ET

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The Pittsburgh Steelers picked up a big win in Week 8, handing the Cleveland Browns a 27-6 loss. The win improved Pittsburgh to 6-2 and gave it sole possession of first place in the AFC North heading into its bye week. Pittsburgh now gets some much-needed rest before another divisional showdown on the road in Week 10.

Several Steelers exceeded expectations, while others had disappointing performances. Pittsburgh will look to build on the big weeks from its top performers and use the bye to help its underperformer bounce back.

Here are the Steelers who outperformed or underperformed in Week 8:

Outperformed: Robert Spears-Jennings

Spears-Jennings has seen an increased snap count since Week 4. He isn’t making eye-popping plays, but he is doing what the Steelers need at free safety: keeping big plays at bay. He did that again in Week 8.

Spears-Jennings allowed just 33 yards in coverage while splitting time between free safety and the box. He also recorded seven total tackles.

Underperformed: DK Metcalf

Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Metcalf could easily have a much better stat line this season if he had held onto a few more passes. In Week 8, one of his drops led to an interception, and his 2026 performance is becoming a concern.

In 2025, Metcalf had six drops all season. Halfway through 2026, he has already matched that total. He is on pace for another career low in receiving yards. The bye week comes at a good time, as he needs to find a way to get going before Week 10.

Outperformed: Asante Samuel Jr.

Oct 18, 2026; Tampa, Florida, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. (22) takes the field for warm ups before the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images

Samuel didn’t get off to the greatest start, but he has settled in and is performing at a high level. He put together another strong week after showing out in Paris in Week 7.

In Week 8, Samuel allowed just one reception for 24 yards on four targets in coverage. That came after he surrendered just 27 yards against the Saints.

Outperformed: Inside Linebackers

Dec 1, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Payton Wilson (center) celebrates his defensive touchdown with defensive tackle Cameron Heyward (97) and linebacker Patrick Queen (6) during the fourth quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Imagesreuters.com,2024:newsml_MT1USATODAY24888008:1171321870

Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson have been outstanding the past few weeks. Both are having their best seasons with the Steelers by far, and their play in Week 8 made a significant difference.

Deshaun Watson couldn’t escape Wilson in his spy assignment. The duo was also stout in coverage and on fire against the run.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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