The Pittsburgh Steelers entrance workplace underwent a giant change in 2022 with Omar Khan changing Kevin Colbert as normal supervisor, and Khan has garnered respect from his friends leaguewide. In a latest survey of 40 executives and coaches by The Athletic, the Steelers’ entrance workplace below Khan was named the Tenth-best within the NFL.
Pittsburgh acquired one first-place vote within the survey and 19 complete factors, which was ok for Tenth place. The Baltimore Ravens had been the one different AFC North crew within the high 10, though they positioned No. 1.
One government gave the Steelers reward for all the time discovering the fitting gamers to suit their defensive scheme.
“They’re old-school,” the manager stated in regards to the Steelers. “They’ve been in the identical defensive system eternally, and they’re actually good at discovering gamers who match it.”
The lone critique was Pittsburgh’s lack of ability thus far to discover a long-term reply to exchange Ben Roethlisberger at quarterback though it was famous that the Steelers’ protection has been so persistently good that they discover a strategy to keep within the playoff race.
This is perhaps the yr the place the Steelers may have that long-term answer if Justin Fields continues to thrive below middle, however it’s too early to challenge that after simply three video games.
Beneath Khan, the Steelers have finished a very good job getting worth by means of the draft, free company and trades. They moved WR Chase Claypool for a second-round choose that turned CB Joey Porter Jr., whereas Porter and a number of different gamers from the 2023 draft, together with Broderick Jones, Keeanu Benton, Nick Herbig and Darnell Washington have grow to be contributors for the Steelers. The early returns from the 2024 class are promising, even with OT Troy Fautanu out long-term with a knee harm. C Zach Frazier has been a stud and each LB Payton Wilson and OG Mason McCormick have made an influence.
In free company, Khan introduced in DeShon Elliott, who’s been a key piece to the secondary this season, in addition to former All-Professional Patrick Queen, who obtained the largest free agent contract in crew historical past. Khan has been unafraid to be aggressive when it necessitates it, and together with assistant normal supervisor Andy Weidl, their give attention to the trenches has helped the Steelers play the fashion of offense they need. It’s a large cause why they’re 3-0.
Khan may proceed to be aggressive if the crew stays scorching. A transfer for an additional large receiver after lacking out on Brandon Aiyuk might be within the works, however both approach, Khan and Co. have finished an important job placing this crew able to succeed.
And the remainder of the league acknowledges that.