QB: The Steelers have one of the best quarterbacks in the league in Big Ben. Ben Rothlisburger. Last season, Rothlisburger had career highs in passing yards (4,952) and in passing completions (408). Ranking 2nd in passing offense only to the Saints, the Steelers were passing the ball at high volumes this past year. This off-season, the Steelers have added more talent to give Rothlisburger even more targets to throw to.
HB: Right in the middle of the pack, the rushing game ranked 16th last season. This stat does not exactly show how good the running game is, considering that they did rank 2nd in passing. Most teams that have such a high ranking in one area, usually rank lower in another. Led by Le'Veon Bell, listed at 6'1, 244 lbs , rushed for over 1,300 yards and 8 touchdowns. With the addition of DeAngelo Williams , the Steelers' running back could have an even bigger impact this upcoming season.
WR: The receiving core starts and ends with Mr. Brown. Receiver Antonio Brown is one of the top 5 best receivers in the league. Last season Antonio Brown had 129 catches for 1,698 yards and 13 touchdowns. Opposite of Brown is potentially a major breakout receiver in fantasy leagues this year. Receiver Markus Wheaton is getting his chance to start for the first time in his career. This opportunity should be great for Wheaton and the other receivers because so much attention will be focused on Brown. Wheaton , draft pick Sammy Coates, and Martavis Bryant should have chances to make some big plays within this offense.
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| Antonio Brown (via Jeffrey Beall) |
TE: Heath Miller is Rothlisburger's bread and butter target. The reliable, consistent tight end is always a good option to throw to down at the goal line or in 3rd and short situations.
Offense: The Steelers are one of the most dangerously balanced offenses in the NFL. They can hurt you through the air, and they can run the ball down the field. As long as health doesn't become an issue, expect some big numbers from the offense.
DL: One of the more youthful defensive lines in the league, the Steelers' defensive line is solid. The Steelers just re-signed defensive end Cameron Heyward, which is something that had to be completed. Since entering the league, Heyward has increased his sack total each season, having 7.5 sacks last season. Both Steve McLendon and Stephon Tuitt will have their chance to show the Steelers that they can really hold down the line.
LB: Led by tackling machine Lawrence Timmons, the Steelers' linebackers seem to really thrive in the team's 3-4 scheme. Ranking 6th in rushing defense, the Steelers gave up just over 100 yards rushing per game. Outside of Timmons, the rest of the starting linebackers are very young. The 2013, 2014, and 2015 1st round picks are the three other starting linebackers. It will be interesting to see how this linebacking core performs as a unit this season.
DB: As of now, this is the area that needs the most improvement in the Steelers defense. Ranking 26th in the league, the secondary must be better. The Steelers current starters have a combined 5 interceptions last season. This has to improve in order for the Steelers to go up another level in contention for the AFC.
Defense: This defense is very solid in the run. It has alot of new faces doing different things this year. It may take some to grow in continuity, yet by mid-season the players will really feed off of one another.
DB: As of now, this is the area that needs the most improvement in the Steelers defense. Ranking 26th in the league, the secondary must be better. The Steelers current starters have a combined 5 interceptions last season. This has to improve in order for the Steelers to go up another level in contention for the AFC.
Defense: This defense is very solid in the run. It has alot of new faces doing different things this year. It may take some to grow in continuity, yet by mid-season the players will really feed off of one another.