Phil Matusz Head Strength And Conditioning Coach | Pittsburgh Steelers Website
Phil Matusz Head Strength And Conditioning Coach | Pittsburgh Steelers Website
The regular "Asked and Answered" column addressed various questions from Pittsburgh Steelers fans.
Ken Mauldin from Clyde, TX, inquired about the Steelers' choice in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. The response expressed a preference for a player similar to the 1969 version of Joe Greene, emphasizing a strong interior defensive lineman who excels at both run defense and pass rushing, as well as demonstrating leadership and passion for winning.
Jimmy Cruz from Terrace, CA, shared his thoughts on the Steelers' offensive line improvements and the addition of DK Metcalf. He questioned the potential of Mason Rudolph as the starting quarterback. The response highlighted Rudolph's familiarity with the Steelers, calling his signing a "smart" move during free agency, and noted his history as a good professional and teammate.
Ray Marshall from Lancaster, PA, asked about Jack Lambert's attendance at a recent benefit celebration. No photos indicated Lambert's presence at the event, based on images from Steelers.com.
William H. Kuklar from Gulfport, MS, questioned the Steelers' current roster situation and draft salary cap requirements. The answer clarified the team currently has 75 players under contract, noting that draft picks don't count toward offseason roster limits until contracts are signed. The response also mentioned the fluid nature of salary cap space following the draft.
Chris Fuller from Milford, KS, asked about the status of injured players traveling with the team. The NFL’s strict rules limit who can be in the bench area during games, notably prioritizing medical personnel over injured players.
William Palaich from Clermont, FL, inquired about the team's designation as the home team for a game in Dublin and season ticketholder implications. The Steelers will only charge for games played at their home stadium.
Edward Bontrager from McKee, KY, expressed concern over the extensive media coverage of the Steelers before the draft. The advice given was to "stay off social media."
Jeff Bankovich from Elizabeth Township, PA, asked about player contracts and guarantees. The response clarified that roster spots are not guaranteed even with one- or two-year contracts.
Nicholas Pelchar from Purcellville, VA, posed a scenario involving trading draft picks. The advice was against expecting significant trade gains, as teams are unlikely to offer higher picks late in the first round.
Carlos Roura from Lake Forest, CA, reflected on the Steelers' past quarterback draft choices. Malik Willis, drafted by the Titans in 2022, has spent his career as a backup, including a stint in Green Bay, and will be a free agent following the 2025 season.
Thad Spreg from Makakilo, HI, asked about financial incentives for players winning the Super Bowl. The response noted that substantial incentive payments would adversely affect the team's future salary cap, making it an impractical scenario.