The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of the few American professional sports teams that have been able to make their franchise synonymous with championships. From ownership with the Rooney family, to all-time greats like Chuck Noll, Franco Harris and Troy Polamalu, the Steelers organization have represented excellence on and off the field

But as of late this standard has faded a bit on the field. A club who was always in the conversation for AFC and league titles has now become consistent wildcard contenders with early exits.

Pittsburgh found themselves in a difficult situation as they acknowledged the fact that franchise quarterback Ben Roethlisberger’s play on the field was diminishing but they decided to remain loyal and allow him to finish out his career the way he wanted to. Now with Roethlisberger retiring this year, the Steelers finally were able to turn the page, albeit later than most probably wanted.

In response to Roethlisberger retiring, the Steelers drafted Pitt quarterback Kenny Pickett and signed free agent quarterback Mitch Trubisky this offseason. Although quarterback is the most important position on the field, Pittsburgh still has to answer questions about the offensive line, receiver position and the defensive backs.

They are, of course, trying to return to being AFC contenders but in order for that to work they need those roster question marks to turn into positives. Below I’ve outlined what could be the best-case scenario, worst case scenario and most likely scenario for the Steelers this upcoming season.

Best Case Scenario

-Addition of Mason Cole at center and James Daniels at right guard makes them a more formidable offensive line and they can run the ball between the tackles

-Trubisky or Pickett play above average and can make the correct decision with the football, making this offense more dynamic

-Chase Claypool or Diontae Johnson emerge as a number one receiver in the NFL and the rest of the receiving core contributes

-The secondary improves with additions made this offseason

-This front seven generate pressure with just four rushers as edge Alex Highsmith turns out to be one of the better pass rushers in the NFL

Record: 11-6

Worst Case Scenario

-This offense line looks a lot like last year failing to establish any toughness to run the ball

-Offense still lacks offensive identity under coordinator Matt Canada

-Neither Trubisky nor Pickett establish themselves as starting-caliber quarterbacks

-Secondary continues to struggle against good offenses

Record: 7-10

Most Likely Scenario

-This Steelers offense finds balance and is able to effectively run the football

-Trubisky shows veteran leadership and is able to make good decisions with the football

-None of the receivers show as true number one receivers but a receiver by committee is effective enough

-The passing game is still sporadic at times but the use of Trubisky’s legs offsets some of these issues

-The front seven is able to get consistent pressure

-The defense finishes in the top 12, while still struggling against the best offenses in the NFL

-The secondary still struggles against the best offenses in the league

Record: 9-8

I think ultimately the Steelers look improved from last year on both the offensive side and defensive side of the ball, but their season record looks very similar to last year. The AFC is loaded with talented teams and even with seven teams making the playoffs, I find it hard for Pittsburgh to make the post season. This year will prove to be the year where the Steelers find out who they are as a team without Ben Roethlisberger and prepare to make a run for an AFC title in 2023.