Steelers Now
The Pittsburgh Steelers are under new stewardship. Mike McCarthy’s team restocked skill players this offseason in hopes of charging up its offense this upcoming campaign.
In theory, new additions Michael Pittman Jr., Germie Bernard and Rico Dowdle should help boost the attack, which ranked No. 25 in total yards per game (305.6) last season. NFL.com’s Nick Shook isn’t as bought in, mainly because of a contingency plan on that side of the ball.
“Instead of replacing one longtime coach with a young star, the Steelers opted for the veteran with Super Bowl experience in McCarthy, a move some interpreted as a ploy to convince Aaron Rodgers to return for a 22nd NFL season,” Shook wrote Tuesday. “If that was indeed the plan, it worked; whether it bears fruit, however, remains to be seen. McCarthy’s track record of directing explosive offenses should encourage Steelers fans who have grown tired of watching low-ceiling units struggle to compete.
“So, too, should the acquisition of veteran receiver Michael Pittman Jr. But much of this feels like it’s held together by chicken wire, at least as of now.”
Behind Rodgers, the Steelers have ninth-year backup Mason Rudolph, who’s made 19 career starts and filled in during a road loss to the Chicago Bears last season after Rodgers fractured his wrist. Will Howard and Drew Allar have yet to see live action as professionals.
“If crisis strikes at QB, visions of a playoff victory — something the Steelers haven’t achieved since the 2016 campaign — will evaporate,” Shook said.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Analyst Casts Serious Doubt on Steelers Offense: ‘Held Together By Chicken Wire’
