The entire Steeler nation should prepare for a 2021 season that does not include defender Ben Roethlisberger. Despite Roethlisberger’s desire to return, the front office seems to be more focused on settling financial resources, and if the two sides can’t reach a midpoint, they will move from Big Ben.
At the same time, the front office has firmly stated that this team will not be rebuilt and does not intend to be a competitive team in 2021, whether or not Roethlisberger is part of it.
How does this happen? First, the Steelers defense must return to their 2019 form. And they must do so without making Bud Dupree. This defense led the team to 8-8 with a combination of Mason Rudolph and Duck Hodges under the center.
This puts tremendous pressure on defensive coordinator Keith Butler. A steady pass shouldn’t be an issue with TJ Watt and Alex Highsmith, but minimizing coverage errors and tightening the defense will be a top priority. Take the teams off the field on descents.
What else needs to happen? Rebuilding the offensive line we were begging for must come and work. It’s one thing to bring in more new beginners, but that doesn’t guarantee they’ll be better than the guys they’re replacing.
Finally, players’ skills need to be enhanced for anyone below the center. The Steelers led the NFL in past passes last season and the rush attack was non-existent. A repeat of them to the areas with Mason Rudolph or Dwayne Haskins under the center and those who will have the biggest choice in the draft under head coach Mike Tomlin.
Last but not least, the Steelers should not close the door on a new defender. There are five franchise-level quarterbacks in this future sketch and if one of them falls into the hands of the Steelers in choice no.