The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering the 2026 season with uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position, as the most promising candidate appears to be Malik Willis, now a free agent. This comes amid reports that veteran Aaron Rodgers is likely to retire, leaving Willis as a top contender to start Week 1 for Pittsburgh. Despite the hope Willis brings, serious questions remain about his ability to lead the team effectively.
Willis, previously serving as a backup with the Green Bay Packers, offers some optimism for the Steelers, but the franchise remains far from resolving its deeper roster issues. The team is still searching for stability not only at quarterback but across several key areas, which affects their chances of competing for a playoff berth or a Super Bowl title in the near future.
Expert Views Highlight Steel City’s Current Standing in the Division
During an appearance on The Mina Kimes Show featuring Lenny, NFL insider Field Yates weighed in on the Steelers’ prospects, pointing out that even with Willis in the fold, the team would likely rank only second or third within the AFC North.
“I think the Steelers with Malik Willis are still maybe the second- or third-best team in their own division,” Yates said. “We’ll see how things shake out with Cincinnati, specifically, this offseason. I do think Baltimore will be back on track next year.”
Yates’ remarks emphasize that Pittsburgh faces stiff competition, particularly from division rivals like the Cincinnati Bengals and Baltimore Ravens, both of whom are expected to improve in 2026. The Ravens anticipate a return to form with Lamar Jackson returning from injury, while Cincinnati’s potent offense and a bolstered defense could make them even tougher opponents.
Steelers’ Roster Challenges Beyond Quarterback
The Steelers’ struggles extend past the quarterback spot. The team’s coaching changes have received mixed reactions, and their overall roster still contains numerous gaps that hinder their competitiveness. In 2025, Pittsburgh won the AFC North largely due to injuries and internal problems within their rivals. Even then, they narrowly made the playoffs, clinching the division only after a last-second missed field goal by an opponent, and were decisively beaten at home in the postseason.
For the Steelers to progress, they must address multiple weaknesses, particularly the passing game. Offensive superstar DK Metcalf demonstrated in 2025 that he could not singlehandedly carry the team’s receiving corps. The team needs additional reliable wide receivers to complement Metcalf and fit the evolving offensive scheme, especially if Willis becomes their starter.
Necessity of Supporting Talent Around Malik Willis
Willis could become the best quarterback the Steelers have had since Ben Roethlisberger, but his development remains critical. He needs to prove he can perform more consistently beyond flashes of competence in a backup role. Alongside his growth, the Steelers face the urgent task of surrounding him with talent, including reinforcing the offensive line’s left side. That group has seen progress individually but still lacks cohesion, which is vital for protecting the quarterback and stabilizing the offense.
The front office holds substantial draft capital and salary cap space, enabling them to invest heavily in building a strong core of receivers and improving the offensive line. Creating competition on the line and strengthening the skill positions will be essential moves to maximize Willis’ potential and elevate the team’s overall performance.
Outlook for the AFC North and Steelers’ Future Prospects
The Steelers are unlikely to receive the same division advantage they had in 2025, as Baltimore and Cincinnati are both projected to rebound with healthier rosters and improved units. With Willis possibly stepping into the starting role, the Steelers may remain a middle-tier team in one of the NFL’s most competitive divisions.
The 2026 season will be a critical test for Malik Willis and the Steelers’ broader rebuilding effort. How well Pittsburgh addresses its roster vulnerabilities, particularly on offense, will largely determine whether they can transition from mere division contenders to legitimate AFC playoff threats in the coming years.
