The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering the 2024 NFL season with major changes across their roster, most notably at the quarterback position. The team has overhauled its lineup in a bid to improve its playoff chances, especially after a season where inconsistent quarterback play hindered their aspirations. Under the leadership of Head Coach Mike Tomlin—known for his record of never finishing a season with a losing record—the Steelers have brought in an exciting blend of new talent, aiming to break through in a tough AFC North division.
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Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin (right) and Baltimore Ravens Head Coach John Harbaugh (left) talk during warmups before the game at then-Heinz Field on September 30, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
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A New Era at Quarterback
Following underwhelming results from 2022 first-round pick Kenny Pickett, the Steelers opted for a significant shake-up. Pickett has been traded to the Philadelphia Eagles, marking the end of a short-lived experiment, while backup Mason Rudolph has also exited. To lead the team, Pittsburgh signed veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, a former Super Bowl champion who arrives with a wealth of experience. Wilson, previously released by the Denver Broncos, has something to prove and will look to make his mark in Pittsburgh.
A Fresh Receiving Corps
Pittsburgh’s wide receiver lineup has also been restructured. Long-time leading target Diontae Johnson was traded to the Carolina Panthers, leaving George Pickens as the go-to receiver. Pickens, entering his third season, has shown flashes of elite potential and will be counted on to fill Johnson’s shoes. To support Pickens, the Steelers signed wide receivers Van Jefferson and Scotty Miller, who bring complementary skills in speed and route-running, respectively. With this new trio, the Steelers aim to provide Wilson and Fields with a diverse and reliable set of targets. Pittsburgh also traded for Mike Williams ahead of the trade deadline from the New York Jets.
Upgrades on Defense and Special Teams
On defense, the Steelers strengthened their lineup by adding key players across multiple positions. Former Carolina Panthers cornerback Donte Jackson joins to add speed and playmaking ability to the secondary, while Patrick Queen, formerly with the Baltimore Ravens, will bring versatility and range to the linebacker position. Safety DeShon Elliott, signed in free agency, provides additional depth and coverage ability in the defensive backfield.
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Steelers safety DeShon Elliott (25) making a big play in his first game with Pittsburgh.
For special teams, Pittsburgh signed punter Cameron Johnston, hoping to improve field position and reliability in scoring situations. Unfortunately, he went down with a season-ending injury in Week 1 and has since been replaced by Corliss Waitman. These additions signal a commitment to all phases of the game as the Steelers prepare for what they hope will be a competitive season.
Pittsburgh Steelers: New Additions in the 2024 Offseason
Russell Wilson, Quarterback
Justin Fields, Quarterback (trade with Chicago)
Donte Jackson, Cornerback (trade with Carolina)
Patrick Queen, Linebacker
DeShon Elliott, Safety
Van Jefferson, Wide Receiver
Cameron Johnston, Punter
Dean Lowry, Defensive Tackle
Cordarrelle Patterson, Running Back
MyCole Pruitt, Tight End
Scotty Miller, Wide Receiver
Jonathan Ward, Running Back
Kyle Allen, Quarterback
Quez Watkins, Wide Receiver
Pittsburgh Steelers: Departures in the 2024 Offseason
Kenny Pickett, Quarterback (trade with Philadelphia)
Mason Rudolph, Quarterback
Mitch Trubisky, Quarterback
Miles Boykin, Wide Receiver
Diontae Johnson, Wide Receiver (trade with Carolina)
Allen Robinson, Wide Receiver
Chukwuma Okorafor, Offensive Tackle
Mason Cole, Center
Markus Golden, Edge
Armon Watts, Defensive Lineman
Kwon Alexander, Linebacker
Mykal Walker, Linebacker
Patrick Peterson, Cornerback
Chandon Sullivan, Cornerback
Levi Wallace, Cornerback
Keanu Neal, Safety
Pressley Harvin III, Punter
%202023%20Camp%20Final%20with%20Logos/2L9A5335-544x306.jpg "Steelers - Diontae Johnson")
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Former Steelers WR Diontae Johnson takes a moment during 2023 training camp.
Pittsburgh Steelers: 2024 NFL Draft Picks
The Steelers aimed to bolster both sides of the ball with their draft selections, prioritizing the offensive line early on to protect their new quarterbacks and enhance the running game. The following are their draft picks:
1st round - Troy Fautanu, Offensive Tackle
2nd round - Zach Frazier, Center
3rd round - Roman Wilson, Wide Receiver
3rd round - Payton Wilson, Linebacker
4th round - Mason McCormick, Guard
6th round - Logan Lee, Defensive End
6th round - Ryan Watts, Cornerback
2024 Season Outlook
The Steelers’ significant changes suggest a determined approach to turn things around and push deeper into the playoffs. With new quarterbacks in Wilson and Fields, an updated receiving corps, and added depth on defense, Pittsburgh is well-equipped to challenge AFC North rivals. The balance of veteran leadership and youthful potential brings optimism, though they’ll face stiff competition. Coach Mike Tomlin’s squad will be one to watch as they pursue postseason success in the 2024 NFL season.
