Several topics related to the Pittsburgh Steelers were discussed in a recent edition of “Asked and Answered.” The column addressed questions from fans on subjects ranging from player performance and coaching changes to draft strategies and NFL rules.
A question about former quarterback Kordell Stewart’s career with the Steelers led to an analysis of how his dual-threat abilities were not fully utilized. The response stated, “It’s my opinion that the NFL wasn’t ready for dual-threat quarterbacks in general and the Steelers didn’t do a good job of adjusting their thinking to accommodate one in particular.” The answer detailed Stewart’s notable seasons, coaching decisions that impacted his development, and key moments such as the 2001 AFC Championship Game loss.
On defensive schemes, Coach Mike McCarthy was quoted regarding the team’s alignment: “The history of the Steelers defense and staying with the 3-4 is important, as far as the origin of it … Always been a fan of it and always felt it was the toughest one to compete against as an offensive coach. That’s part of the reason why I went to it in Green Bay.” Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham also commented on personnel size: “The size. The sheer mass of the human beings we have lined up out there. This is what you envision in terms of your defense to look like in terms of length, size, mass. They’re just big men. Every time I have met one of them, most of them are all bigger than me. I’m not a small guy, but they just dwarf me. I’m like, ‘Yes this is exactly what I want it to look like.'”
Questions about draft strategy indicated that while this year’s draft class has depth at wide receiver (WR), decisions would be based on evaluations rather than positional runs: “My opinion on this is that I wouldn’t pass on a dynamic WR in the first round because I think/hope you can get the same caliber player in the second/third round. I would trust the evaluations/grades and pick my board.”
Regarding future quarterback prospects, skepticism was expressed about relying too heavily on projections: “What this 2026 group of draft eligible QBs has shown everyone is that what’s predicted before the college season is not necessarily the reality.”
On staffing changes under new head coach Mike McCarthy compared to previous coach Mike Tomlin, it was noted there are now 26 assistants versus 23 previously.
Condolences were offered for former player Mike Wagner. Mel Blount said, “I don’t know how to say it other than he was a good person.”
Discussion about potential rule changes included reference to NFL Media’s Judy Battista reporting no significant proposals expected: “‘The game is in a good place,’ he said.”
Staff retention was also covered; Tom Arth remains as quarterbacks coach and Scott McCurley continues with inside linebackers. Arthur Smith moved to Ohio State as offensive coordinator; Danny Smith joined Tampa Bay Buccaneers as special teams coordinator; Teryl Austin had not secured another position at last report.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have recognized figures such as Terry Bradshaw and Joe Greene through their Hall of Honor program for contributions made throughout team history (official website). The organization has achieved six Super Bowl championships (official website) and engages with its community through historical celebrations and fan experiences (official website). Acrisure Stadium features a Hall of Honor Museum displaying artifacts related to team history (official website). As an NFL member franchise (official website), these recognitions contribute both locally and within league history.
