Grading every move from the Steelers’ 2026 offseason

June 25, 2026 - 16:30

The Pittsburgh Steelers entered the 2026 offseason with a clear mandate: fix the quarterback position and restock an aging roster. After a frustrating 2025 campaign that ended in another first-round playoff exit, the front office had to be aggressive. Now that the dust has settled, it is time to hand out grades for the major moves.

The Quarterback Shuffle: B+

The Steelers finally moved on from the Kenny Pickett experiment, trading him for a mid-round pick. They then signed veteran Sam Darnold to a two-year deal. While Darnold is not a superstar, he brings a stronger arm and better mobility than what the team had. The real win was drafting a developmental prospect in the third round. This is not a home run, but it is a solid double that stabilizes the position without mortgaging the future.

Free Agency Haul: A-

General manager Omar Khan focused on the trenches. Signing a top-tier defensive tackle to pair with Cam Heyward was a masterstroke. The interior defensive line suddenly looks dominant. On offense, they added a reliable right guard, finally addressing a weakness that plagued the run game. The only miss was overpaying for a slot cornerback who has a history of injuries. Still, the core additions are significant upgrades.

Draft Class: B

The Steelers stuck to their board and took a cornerback in the first round. He is a physical, press-man defender who fits the scheme perfectly. The second-round pick was a surprise: a versatile running back who can catch passes. While the team had bigger needs at wide receiver, this player adds a new dimension to Arthur Smith's offense. The later rounds produced depth at linebacker and offensive tackle, which should pay off in 2027.

The Big Picture

This offseason was not flashy, but it was smart. The Steelers avoided the temptation to trade multiple picks for a veteran quarterback. Instead, they rebuilt the lines and added athleticism. The team is now younger, tougher, and more balanced. If Darnold plays average football, this roster can win the AFC North. If he struggles, the team has the cap space and draft capital to make a bigger move next year. Final grade: a solid B-plus. The foundation is set. Now it is time to see if the coaching staff can build the house.