Pittsburgh Steelers on the Rise : Kenny Pickett & Tomlin’s Tough Defense
The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering the 2025 NFL season with something the franchise hasn’t felt in a while—momentum and untapped potential. After years of uncertainty at quarterback following Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement, Kenny Pickett is finally stepping into the spotlight. Alongside him stands a staple of consistency and resilience: Mike Tomlin, whose defensive blueprint remains as dominant as ever.
The Steelers are often overlooked in national media discussions, but 2025 may mark the year that narrative changes. With Kenny Pickett maturing into a true leader, a revamped offensive attack, and Tomlin’s tough defense leading the charge, the Pittsburgh Steelers are on the rise—and they’re not sneaking up on anyone this time.
Kenny Pickett: The Quarterback Evolution
When the Steelers drafted Kenny Pickett in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, the expectations were high. As a University of Pittsburgh product, he came in with built-in familiarity and pressure to perform. After flashes of potential in 2022 and 2023, 2024 saw a major turning point.
2024 Season Review
Pickett posted:
- 3,300 passing yards
- 24 touchdowns to 9 interceptions
- 63.8% completion rate
While those numbers don’t jump off the page, what stood out was his poise in the pocket, improvement in decision-making, and ability to win late in games. His fourth-quarter passer rating ranked in the top 5 among AFC quarterbacks.
2025 Goals and Growth
Entering his third full season as the starter, Pickett now has full command of the offense. He spent the offseason working with receivers in private training camps and reportedly refined his deep ball accuracy, which had been a weakness in prior seasons.
“Kenny looks more confident, more commanding,” said offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. “He knows this is his team.”
Chemistry with Receivers
- George Pickens: The explosive WR1 who’s now entering his prime.
- Diontae Johnson: Route-running technician and reliable target.
- Pat Freiermuth: The security blanket tight end, especially in red-zone situations.
This trio gives Pickett every opportunity to thrive.
Pittsburgh Steelers on the Rise: Tomlin’s Defensive Masterclass
No matter who lines up under center, one constant has defined the Steelers during the Mike Tomlin era—defense. Now in his 19th season, Tomlin has once again built a unit that is physical, fast, and fundamentally sound.
Defensive Identity
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense continues to be built around aggressive front-seven play, hard-hitting linebackers, and takeaway-minded secondary play.
They finished the 2024 season:
- Top 5 in sacks (54)
- Top 10 in scoring defense
- Top 5 in 3rd down stops
The 2025 iteration of this group may be even more dangerous.
T.J. Watt: Still Elite
T.J. Watt remains one of the premier pass rushers in the league. After notching 16.5 sacks last season, Watt is healthy and motivated to chase another Defensive Player of the Year award.
His ability to disrupt both the run and pass game creates chaos for opposing offenses. Paired with Alex Highsmith, who added 11 sacks in 2024, the Steelers boast arguably the best edge-rushing tandem in football.
Linebacker Reinforcement
The signing of Patrick Queen from division-rival Baltimore was one of the most underrated moves of the offseason. Queen brings speed, coverage ability, and AFC North experience. He will join Cole Holcomb, adding dynamic versatility in the middle.
Secondary Depth
- Minkah Fitzpatrick: A Pro Bowl safety with elite ball skills.
- Joey Porter Jr.: Emerging as a true lockdown corner.
- Cam Sutton: Returns to Pittsburgh after a stint in Detroit, adding veteran leadership and familiarity.
Tomlin’s system thrives on creating confusion pre-snap and executing with discipline post-snap. The Steelers’ defensive schemes remain some of the most deceptive and efficient in football.
Offensive Line: The Quiet Strength
Much of Kenny Pickett’s rise depends on the men protecting him. After years of inconsistency, Pittsburgh’s offensive line has quietly become a strength.
Anchors of the Line
- Broderick Jones: The 2023 first-round pick looks poised to be a cornerstone left tackle.
- Isaac Seumalo and James Daniels: Provide stability at the guard spots.
- Zach Frazier: The rookie center from West Virginia has impressed early in camp with his football IQ and strength.
The Steelers’ offensive line is built to protect Pickett and open lanes for the ground game, which brings us to another reason the Pittsburgh Steelers are on the rise.
Running Game: Ground and Pound
Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren
- Najee Harris continues to be the workhorse, rushing for over 1,100 yards last season and adding 10 touchdowns.
- Jaylen Warren offers a perfect change of pace with his burst and receiving ability out of the backfield.
This duo gives Pittsburgh one of the most balanced running back rooms in the AFC. Arthur Smith’s scheme relies heavily on the run, and with these two, the Steelers can control the tempo and wear down defenses.
Coaching Consistency: The Tomlin Standard
Mike Tomlin is entering his 19th season as head coach. He has never had a losing season—a feat unmatched in modern NFL history. His leadership, adaptability, and ability to connect with players keep the Steelers competitive year after year.
In 2025, Tomlin has a deeper, more talented roster than he’s had in recent memory. The team now has the balance on both sides of the ball to make a deep playoff push.
“We’ve built this team with one thing in mind: championships,” said Tomlin during training camp. “And that means being excellent at the basics—blocking, tackling, discipline, and playing smart football.”
2025 Schedule Highlights
- Week 2 vs. Cleveland Browns – A fierce AFC North rivalry, and a key test for Pickett.
- Week 5 vs. Baltimore Ravens – Tomlin vs. Harbaugh, a classic defensive showdown.
- Week 10 at Kansas City Chiefs – Can the Steelers hang with the champs?
- Week 15 vs. Cincinnati Bengals – Potential playoff implications.
- Week 18 at Baltimore Ravens – Possibly a division-deciding game.
Statistical Goals for 2025
Offense
- Pickett: 4,000+ yards, 30+ TDs
- Pickens: 1,200+ receiving yards
- Najee Harris: 1,300+ rushing yards
- Top 10 in red-zone efficiency
Defense
- Top 5 in sacks
- Top 3 in turnovers forced
- Under 20 points allowed per game
- Top 5 third-down stop rate
These targets are ambitious but within reach, considering the talent, depth, and coaching on the roster.
National Reactions & Analyst Takes
ESPN
“The Steelers have found the right formula—Pickett’s growth, a two-headed rushing attack, and the ever-reliable defense. Don’t be surprised if they win the AFC North.”
NFL.com
“Kenny Pickett has taken the leap, and Mike Tomlin has his defense firing on all cylinders. This team could be a dark horse Super Bowl contender.”
PFF (Pro Football Focus)
“Pittsburgh’s pass rush and coverage combination are top 3 in our rankings. Add competent quarterback play, and they become dangerous in the postseason.”
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Fan Buzz: Excitement in the Steel City
Pittsburgh fans are some of the most passionate and loyal in the NFL. With expectations finally rising again, ticket sales have surged and social media is buzzing.
From Terrible Towels waving in Heinz Field to Kenny Pickett jerseys flying off the shelves, the excitement is real. The Steel City believes again—and this time, the hype is backed by production.
Final Thoughts: The Steelers’ Time is Now
The Pittsburgh Steelers are on the rise, and 2025 could be the season where they break through the postseason ceiling that has hovered over them in recent years.
With Kenny Pickett’s development, Mike Tomlin’s elite defense, and a complete, balanced roster, this team has all the ingredients for a deep playoff run—and maybe more.
In a loaded AFC, Pittsburgh is embracing its underdog identity with confidence, toughness, and swagger. And as history has shown, that’s when the Steelers are most dangerous.
Watch the AFC North closely. The Pittsburgh Steelers are back—and they’re hungry for more.
