Three Ways the Steelers Can Save Their Season — Including Necessary Changes to the Offense
As the Pittsburgh Steelers sit at a precarious point in their 2025 season, with inconsistent performances and mounting pressure, it’s clear that something must change to avoid another year of mediocrity. Once known for their smashmouth football and elite defensive play, this current version of the Steelers has struggled with identity issues and inefficiencies on both sides of the ball. However, all hope is not lost. With half the season still ahead, the Steelers can right the ship. Here are three crucial changes they must make to salvage their season, starting with much-needed adjustments to the offense.
1. Redefine the Offensive Identity
The Steelers’ offense has lacked rhythm and creativity, often appearing predictable and stagnant. Quarterback Kenny Pickett, in his third year, has shown flashes of potential but has yet to consistently deliver. Much of the blame can be traced back to the offensive play-calling, which has leaned too heavily on safe, short-yardage passes and uninspired runs.
To spark the offense, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith must open up the playbook. That means trusting Pickett to throw deeper downfield, utilizing play-action more frequently, and designing schemes that better utilize the skill sets of wideouts George Pickens and Diontae Johnson. Additionally, the team must find ways to get tight end Pat Freiermuth more involved, particularly in the red zone where they’ve struggled.
Creative motion, jet sweeps, and mismatches should be a greater focus. This offense doesn’t need to be elite to keep the team competitive, but it does need to be more efficient and less predictable.
2. Lean on the Running Game — But With Balance
Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren have both shown they can be effective runners when given space. The problem is the offensive line hasn’t consistently created that space. However, recent improvements in run blocking suggest there’s untapped potential.
The Steelers must commit to a more balanced offensive approach. That doesn’t mean returning to run-heavy tactics at the expense of unpredictability — rather, it means using the run to set up more explosive pass plays. Warren’s explosiveness and Harris’s physicality can wear down defenses, particularly in second halves. Rotating them more effectively and using the run to keep defenses honest will open up more opportunities in the passing game.
3. Defensive Consistency and Creating Turnovers
The Steelers’ defense, once their crown jewel, has had a rollercoaster season. While T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick remain stars, they can’t carry the entire unit. Missed tackles, blown assignments, and a lack of turnovers have prevented the defense from dictating games.
The Steelers must simplify coverage schemes and focus on fundamentals — tackling, gap integrity, and communication. The pass rush, anchored by Watt and Alex Highsmith, remains potent, but the secondary must do a better job capitalizing on pressure-created opportunities.
Adding more man coverage and disguising blitz packages could create confusion for opposing quarterbacks and lead to more takeaways. A defense that creates short fields for the offense is vital to turning the tide.
Final Thoughts
With the AFC North as competitive as ever, the Steelers are on the brink. But with bold offensive changes, a balanced run-pass strategy, and a return to defensive fundamentals, they can still mount a playoff push. Time is short — but not yet expired.
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