Pittsburgh Steelers

The post Bill Cowher era begins in Pittsburgh in 2007, after the Steelers failed to make the playoffs after winning the Super Bowl in 2006. The off-season was tumultuous to say the least, as the Bus retired, and Ben Roethlisberger was nearly killed after getting hit riding his super bike motorcycle without a helmet. Nice move, indeed. Big Ben's season was one he'd soon like to forget, as the Steelers just couldn't get it done fast enough. The Steel Show pulled together at the end, winning 6 of their last 8 games trying to make a playoff push, but their 2-6 start left them just out of the post season. Hines Ward's numbers were down, Heath Miller had a slow year, and Santonio Holmes took a while to get his NFL legs under him, but Willie Parker was fantastic in his first full season carrying the load in Pittsburgh. Fast Willie sprinted to 1,494 yards rushing, and over 1,700 yards from scrimmage in '06. I expect much of the same from him this season. Big Ben's struggles are well documented, as he through 5 more interceptions than touchdowns (18-23), but also had some solid games throughout the season. Mike Tomlin takes over for the Steelers, bringing his tough-nosed defensive style to a Steeler team that should find their way back to elite status in '07.

Recent Records:

2004: 15-1 2005: 11-5 2006: 8-8

Off-Season Plans:

The Steelers have some interesting personal decisions they're going to have to make all off season, as Tomlin is a 4-3 coach, coming into a defensive scheme that has succeeded in the 3-4 for as long as I can remember. The first think Pittsburgh did was let Joey Porter walk down to Miami, which would make me assume Tomlin's influence is already in full motion, as Joey is strictly a 3-4 rush linebacker. I'm sure Tomlin will incorporate both defenses into the plans next season, but don't expect Pittsburgh to draft 3-4 type players, and don't expect Tomlin to beat around the bush either. This young coach is as honest as they come. Looking into the upcoming season, the Steelers already have an advantage, with a week non-conference and overall schedule, playing Seattle, St. Louis, San Francisco, Arizona, Buffalo, and Miami. I'm not saying Seattle or the rest of the NFC West isn't tough, but the NFC West isn't tough. The Steelers haven't lost much, aside from Joey Porter, during the off season, but haven't gained much either. Paul Posluszny might have pushed himself into the Steelers' plans with two fine workouts in the combine and during his pro-day workout, but I would imagine the Steelers take a lock-down corner with their first round selection. I have Revis going to Pittsburgh, and they reason I expect Tomlin and the Steel Show to go corner, is the Steelers gave up too much deep last season, and a shootout doesn't suit Pittsburgh's style. Defensive help is on the way in Steel Country.

See the STEELERS draft situation at Lucky's Mock Draft!