Three Steelers who need to stand out following the bye week

The bye week came at a pivotal moment for the Steelers—a chance to regroup, refocus, and recalibrate after an uneven start. With the three quarters of the season looming and the lead in the AFC North, Pittsburgh needs more than just steady play—they need difference-makers.

Whether it’s veterans looking to reassert their impact or young talent ready to break through, a few key players must rise above the noise and deliver. Here are three Steelers who need to stand out as the team turns the page and gears up for an October run.

Mason McCormick

Through four games Aaron Rodgers has been sacked nine times, which is improving. However, going back to Week 3 against the New England Patriots, Rodgers had been pressured as much as 50% of the game. Surprisingly, the usual suspects, tackles Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu, haven’t been the main culprit in Rodgers’ being pressured: most of the pressure has come up the middle, with 2024 fourth round pick Mason McCormick receiving a brunt of the blame.

McCormick’s run blocking improved tremendously in Dublin, Ireland against the Minnesota Vikings. Yet, a key lapse in the game’s opening possession for Pittsburgh say McCormick miss a block and Rodgers instantly sacked.

The remainder of the game was smoother sailing, but for Rodgers to connect on deep passes he will need more time in the pocket for downfield plays to develop. Thus far, McCormick appears to be the weaker link on a young Steelers offensive line that needs to step up their play.

Roman Wilson

Wilson, last year’s third-round draft selection, missed nearly all of the 2024 season due to various injuries and has found himself trying to claw back into receiving playing time in 2025.

With a recent injury to Calvin Austin III, the search for a second receiving threat in the Steelers offense is on – and Wilson may be able to carve out a niche.

It remains to be seen if receivers coach Zach Azzanni can develop a young talent, making Wilson the perfect project for a player who needs to step up in the absence of another. If Wilson can translate his talents from his time at Michigan, we could see him on the field more frequently with Austin’s return status currently unknown.

Joey Porter Jr.

This may seem a bit unfair as Porter has been sidelined with injuries over the last several games, but his return is imperative for the Steelers defense to continue it’s ascent.

Jalen Ramsey is dealing with a hamstring injury that could keep him out for an extended period of time, making Porter’s return to full health – and contributions on the field – that much more important.

The second generation Steeler will need to make an impact immediately, while also limiting the penalties that hindered his progress last season.