Pittsburgh Review

On August 20, fans submitted questions regarding the Pittsburgh Steelers' upcoming season and received responses addressing various concerns.

Victor Vale from Spring, TX, inquired about tight end Darnell Washington's role in the offense. "In 2023, TE Darnell Washington was targeted 10 times," the response noted, adding that a new offensive scheme could see him more involved as a receiver. However, fans should not expect him to be used similarly to Pat Freiermuth or Connor Heyward until the roster is finalized.

Scott Randall from Conway, SC expressed concern over Jaylen Warren's hamstring injury and praised La'Mical Perine's performance. The response suggested optimism that Warren might not be placed on injured reserve and speculated on potential practice squad candidates like Perine, Jonathan Ward, Aaron Shampklin, and Daijun Edwards.

Jody Sa Doyle from Santee, CA reminisced about a Steelers game in December 1972 and questioned Arthur Smith’s capability to lead the offense. The reply corrected the game location and disagreed with Doyle’s comparison of Smith to previous offensive coordinators Joe Walton and Matt Canada.

Grant Spellerberg from Cutler Bay, FL asked why their No. 3 quarterback didn't play against Buffalo. The answer indicated Kyle Allen's absence was due to prioritizing snaps for Russell Wilson and Justin Fields during preseason.

John Rechel from Leesport, PA wanted clarity on unofficially retired jersey numbers. It was clarified that no jerseys are unofficially retired but some are out of circulation based on historical significance upheld by Steelers President Art Rooney II.

Tom Bruzda from Wildomar, CA asked about post-cut processes for players released after final roster decisions. It was explained that veteran players become free agents while less experienced players enter waivers before potentially joining practice squads.

Jeff Kyle from Ft Myers, FL questioned if Rob King had replaced Bill Hillgrove as "voice of the Steelers." The clarification stated Hillgrove only called games on radio while TV announcers are chosen by broadcasting networks.

Bill Brown from Virginia Beach voiced regret over trading Diontae Johnson despite his attitude issues. The response highlighted differing values between positions without agreeing with Brown’s sentiment.

Ed Johnson from Germantown asked about quarterbacks starting plays in shotgun formation historically attributed to Roger Staubach. A detailed history traced its roots back to San Francisco 49ers coach Red Hickey in 1960 through various adaptations over time.