Steelers Fans, Brace Yourselves: James Harrison, a Steelers legend, has a message that might sting: a rebuild could be on the horizon. For a team synonymous with winning, the current reality is a stark contrast to the championship standard. They haven't tasted playoff victory since the 2016 season, and the path forward is uncertain. Losing to the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday night could spell the end of their playoff hopes this year. Harrison believes it might be time to accept a period of rebuilding.
"I believe that, with the current defense we have, or should I say defensive ranking we have, without a veteran quarterback, we will be in the bottom," Harrison stated on his Deebo and Joe podcast. He suggests that the Steelers might need to endure a few tough seasons to set themselves up for future success, possibly mirroring the New England Patriots' journey.
The Patriots' Path: A Blueprint for the Steelers?
The Patriots, a dynasty throughout the 2000s and 2010s, faced a significant shift after Tom Brady's departure in 2019. After a few challenging years, they hit rock bottom in 2023, leading to a complete reset, including Bill Belichick's departure. However, after posting another 4-13 season in 2024, they're now back among the league's elite, boasting a 13-3 record and a promising quarterback in Drake Maye.
But here's where it gets controversial... Could the Steelers follow this model? It's unlikely they'd intentionally aim for a losing season. The Steelers haven't had a losing season since 2003, and they prioritize winning. They are not the type of organization that would actively tank.
A Patient Approach: Even with potential struggles, firing head coach Mike Tomlin seems unlikely, given the Steelers' ownership's patience. If Tomlin leaves, it will be on his terms.
The Risks of Tanking:
And this is the part most people miss... There's no guarantee that tanking would solve the Steelers' problems. Look at teams that have consistently picked high in the draft without finding a franchise quarterback. The Steelers are unlikely to want to emulate the Cleveland Browns or New York Jets.
Alternative Strategies: The Steelers could explore trading up in the draft, especially with their assets for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Final Thoughts: Tanking isn't a simple solution. If the Steelers struggle, there's no telling when they'll contend again. Fans might find themselves simply hoping for a return to the playoffs.
What do you think, Steelers Nation? Do you agree with Harrison's assessment? Are you prepared for a rebuild, or do you believe the team can find a quicker path to success? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
