Behind the Steel Curtain
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Kurt Warner sees low ceiling for Steelers
Former Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner doubts the Pittsburgh Steelers can translate their 5-2 start into a deep AFC run, citing offensive shortcomings. On The Rich Eisen Show, Warner argues the Steelers lack scoring firepower, especially a consistent rushing threat—they’ve recorded only one rushing TD so far. While the defense keeps them competitive, Warner warns the team must improve drive efficiency and point production to match AFC powerhouses and become a true Super Bowl contender.
Steelers interested in trading for Colts WR Josh Downs
The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly eyeing a trade for Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs, according to Jordan Schultz. Downs, who requested a trade on Wednesday, has drawn interest from several AFC teams, though a deal isn’t expected this week. If acquired, he would become Pittsburgh’s second Colts receiver trade this season after Michael Pittman Jr. was obtained in March. Downs currently has 26 catches for 307 yards in 2026, following a 58‑catch, 566‑yard 2025 campaign and a 72‑catch, 803‑yard breakout in 2024. Sources suggest a trade could materialize later in the offseason.
Steelers named trade destination for Eagles CB Riq Woolen
ESPN analyst Jeremy Fowler links the Pittsburgh Steelers to a possible trade for Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Riq Woolen, a Super Bowl‑winning defensive back with 12 career interceptions and six pass breakups in 2026. Woolen, a 2027 free agent with a $1.26 million base salary and $12 million in guarantees, could help the Steelers shore up a thin cornerback group after trading Joey Porter Jr. Fowler cites the Steelers, Lions and Panthers as likely destinations, noting Woolen’s high upside for Pittsburgh’s secondary.
Steelers news: Do the Steelers need to make a trade for a receiver?
The Steelers sit 5-2 in the AFC North despite a battered WR corps, with Michael Pittman Jr. on IR and newcomers like Germie Bernard showing promise. Ahead of the trade deadline, the blog weighs a move for a top receiver—potentially Garrett Wilson from the Jets—versus waiting for market shifts after another loss. With the Jets holding a first‑round pick and the Colts tanking, Pittsburgh could target Wilson, Jeremiah Smith or other options to boost its Lombardi hopes.
Mike McCarthy hypes up Cleveland ahead of Steelers-Browns matchup
Mike McCarthy amps up the Steelers before their October 27 rematch with the Browns, a week after Cleveland’s 27-24 Thursday Night Football win on Oct. 1. He praises Cleveland’s surprising downtown and suburbs, recalling the historic Cardiac Kids rivalries. The Steelers sit 6-2, needing a win at Acrisure Stadium to claim first in the AFC North—something they haven’t accomplished in Cleveland since Halloween 2021 and haven’t lost at home since 2003. Both teams have new coaches, and McCarthy says the game marks a "new era" for the rivalry.
Steelers connected to Chargers WR Ladd McConkey in potential trade
The Steelers are reportedly eyeing Los Angeles Chargers wideout Ladd McConkey as a potential trade target, according to Jason La Canfora. McConkey’s production has dipped—13 catches in five games this season and 66 receptions in 2025 after a standout rookie year—while the Chargers sit 0-6, making a trade plausible before the deadline. His versatility across the perimeter, slot, and inline could give Pittsburgh a 1,000‑yard receiving option and complement its offense, joining other rumored moves for Jaguars WR Brian Thomas Jr.
Steelers Week 8 power rankings roundup: Three straight wins earns Pittsburgh respect
The Steelers’ 16‑10 win over the New Orleans Saints in the NFL’s first Paris game lifts them to 5‑2 and puts them on the cusp of overtaking the Browns for AFC North lead. After three straight victories, power‑ranking giants like FOX Sports, The Athletic, CBS Sports and Pro Football Talk have jumped Pittsburgh into the top 15, highlighting Aaron Rodgers’ resurgence, the emergence of RB Jaylen Warren (plus Rico Dowdle’s impact), and Mike McCarthy’s adaptable play‑calling. Critics note the wins are tight and often against losing teams, but consensus is that Pittsburgh finally stopped being underestimated and could be a playoff contender.
Week 8 odds: The Steelers open as slight favorites vs. Browns
The Steelers host the Browns on October 27, opening as 3.5‑point favorites at a 39.5 over/under, according to FanDuel. A win would let Pittsburgh retake AFC North lead after a 12‑straight home streak against Cleveland, though the Browns have won the last two meetings in Ohio. Pittsburgh’s run defense ranks seventh in the league, while Cleveland allows 116.4 rushing yards per game. Coach Mike McCarthy plans to lean on Jaylen Warren and rotate Rico Dowdle amid wide‑receiver injuries. The matchup pits a defensive‑heavy game plan against a Browns unit that struggled against the run last week.
Steelers news: How real is the Steelers’ 5-2 start?
The Steelers sit 5-2 through Week 7, tying for first in the AFC North but trailing the Browns on tiebreakers. After three straight wins, analysts question the sustainability of the run, but the blog argues that wins—regardless of opponent strength—prove the defense’s toughness and the offense’s playmaking. Upcoming matchups with Cleveland and Cincinnati could push Pittsburgh to the top. The piece also highlights rookie Spencer Anderson’s impact, Mike McCarthy’s potential Coach‑of‑the‑Year chatter, and other Steelers news.
BTSC Monday Night Football thread: Cowboys at Eagles
Both 2-4, the Cowboys and Eagles meet on Monday Night Football to close out the NFL’s Week 7 in an NFC East clash. Who are you rooting for? What are you watching for? Join the BTSC community and join us in the comments.
Steelers Week 7 grades in win over Saints
The Steelers improve to 5-2 after a 16-10 victory over the Saints in Paris, earning mixed grades from Behind the Steel Curtain. Aaron Rodgers gets a B+ from Bailey and a C from Bray, praised for a clutch 51‑yard pass to DK Metcalf and a late scramble but noted for limited passing volume. Jaylen Warren shines with 101 rushing yards, 36 receiving yards and earns A and A+ grades, becoming the first RB since 2019 to reach 550+ rush and 250+ receiving yards in seven games. Rico Dowdle provides solid support with 41 rushing yards and six catches, receiving B grades. The offense improves on line play but still struggles in the red zone, earning C‑ grades. T.J. Watt’s edge rush continues to excel.
Steelers’ Mike McCarthy praises jumbo package, OL Spencer Anderson
Mike McCarthy credits the Steelers’ revived jumbo package for the 16-10 win over the Saints on Oct. 26, 2026, noting its roots in the successful 2025 scheme. Utility lineman Spencer Anderson starred, logging 13 snaps—12 rushing plays—for 77 yards at 6.4 yards per carry, including three runs of nine-plus yards. McCarthy praised Anderson’s versatility, comparing him to Conner McGovern, and said his injury‑limited role early in the season delayed the package’s use. With Brock Hoffman now the starter at right guard, the Steelers intend to keep finding ways to employ Anderson’s unique skill set.
Former Steelers safety signs with Ravens
Former Steelers safety Rayshawn Jenkins signs with the Baltimore Ravens, marking his third AFC North stint after playing 17 games for the Browns in 2025. Jenkins, who joined Pittsburgh in training camp and appeared in six games before being released following a subpar performance against the Cleveland Browns, heads to Baltimore as the Ravens seek to rebound from back‑to‑back divisional defeats, including a 35-13 loss to the Bengals in Week 7.
Steelers UDFA rookie emerges as diamond in the rough vs. Saints
Undrafted rookie defensive tackle Kevin Jobity Jr. makes a splash for the Steelers in Week 7 against the Saints in Paris, becoming the 11th rookie to crack the 53-man roster. Despite the Steelers' D‑line being shorthanded after Derrick Harmon and Sebastian Joseph‑Day land on IR, Jobity saw his first 15 NFL snaps, contributing on kickoff coverage and posting solid blocks. At 6‑4, 308 lb, he posted an 8.87 athletic score, a 1.69‑second 10‑yard split and a 32‑inch vertical, and even forced a scramble from QB Tyler Shough. Coach Domata Peko’s mentorship may help him solidify a regular role.
The Steelers’ defense has reached elite territory
After a dismal 2025 where the Steelers ranked near the bottom in defensive EPA and yards allowed, the 2026 unit has vaulted into elite territory. Through seven weeks they sit tied for 6th in defensive EPA per play, allow the 6th-fewest yards per game, and are 2nd in DVOA against the run behind Patrick Graham’s scheme change. Since Week 5 they’ve surrendered just three touchdowns, a league‑best run success rate, and only 5.67 yards per pass attempt. Highlights include Patrick Queen’s 10‑tackle, sack‑filled performance against the Saints and Jaylen Warren’s 101 rushing yards plus 36 receiving yards. With T.J. Watt back among the top pass rushers, Pittsburgh’s defense now matches its improving offense as a genuine contender.
Steelers news: The AFC North is a dogfight
The Steelers extend their winning run with a third straight victory, beating the New Orleans Saints in Paris and improving to 5-2, the longest streak in the AFC North. Despite the surge, they sit second behind the Browns, who hold the tiebreaker after a Week 4 win. Pittsburgh’s defense limited the Saints to just 18 rushing yards, and a home showdown with Cleveland next week could clinch the division. The article also previews QB draft prospects, playoff implications, and fan discussion forums.
5 takeaways from the Steelers’ 16-10 win over the Saints in Paris
The Steelers edge the Saints 16-10 in Paris, improving to 5-2 and tying the Browns atop the AFC North. Jaylen Warren proves his value, rushing for 101 yards on 18 carries and tallying 136 total yards, while Rico Dowdle adds 86 yards and a reliable change‑of‑pace role. Pittsburgh’s defense holds firm, despite a late Saints drive and a penalty that erased a potential field goal. The win keeps the division race tight, with the upcoming Steelers‑Browns showdown set to decide the AFC North lead. The article also notes the shift from zone to power‑gap run schemes and the balanced 60‑40 split between Warren and Dowdle.
Steelers stay put in AFC playoff picture after win over Saints
The Steelers extend their winning streak to three, beating the New Orleans Saints 16-10 in the NFL’s inaugural Paris game and improving to 5-2. Meanwhile, the Browns upset the Titans with a last‑second field goal, keeping the AFC North race tight as Cleveland (5-2) and Pittsburgh (5-2) vie for the division lead. Pittsburgh sits as the No. 6 seed behind the Broncos, while the AFC playoff picture features the Chiefs (5‑0) and Bills (5‑1) atop the standings. The Steelers host the Browns next week in a pivotal matchup.
Steelers finally find success on third down in win over Saints
The Steelers snapped their third‑down woes with a season‑high 10 conversions on 16 attempts in a 16‑10 win over the New Orleans Saints in Paris. Pittsburgh’s ground game dominated, rushing for 148 yards on 18 carries (8.2 y/d) and sustaining drives of 8–14 plays. Aaron Rodgers sparked the offense with a 51‑yard catch to DK Metcalf on 3rd‑and‑14, leading to a Darnell Washington TD. The team ran the ball on third down seven times, converting six, and improved from being 28th in EPA to first in the division at 5‑2. Despite missed red‑zone opportunities, the efficient offense showcased the Steelers’ resurgence.
Steelers stock report after Week 7 win over Saints
The Steelers beat the Saints 16‑10 in the NFL’s first Paris game, moving to 5‑2. RB Jaylen Warren shines with 101 yards on 18 carries (5.6 ypc) and three catches, while TE Darnell Washington scores the lone touchdown on a 6‑7‑inches fade. Pittsburgh’s “bend‑don’t‑break” defense limits New Orleans to 10 points and just 18 rushing yards, despite two near‑call fumbles. However, the offense stalls in the red zone, settling for three field goals and a costly drop by TE Pat Freiermuth, raising concerns about turning drives into touchdowns as the season progresses.
BTSC Sunday NFL games thread: Week 7
After a very early Steelers-Saints game, the rest of the NFL’s Week 7 Sunday slate is upon us. Hang out at BTSC for the rest of the day’s games: Who are you rooting for? What are you watching for? Let us know here at Behind the Steel Curtain.
Steelers punish Saints on the ground, win 16-10 in Paris
The Pittsburgh Steelers clinch a third straight win, edging the New Orleans Saints 16-10 in Paris. Aaron Rodgers throws his 540th career touchdown pass—a record‑breaking strike that moves him past Peyton Manning into third place—all while the Steelers dominate on the ground, out‑rushing the Saints 148‑18. Jaylen Warren piles up 101 rushing yards, and the defense forces a crucial red‑zone interception by Payton Wilson. Pittsburgh finishes 5‑2, tied for the AFC lead, and looks to improve to 6‑2 against the Browns next week.
Aaron Rodgers passes Peyton Manning on all-time touchdowns list
Aaron Rodgers eclipses Peyton Manning on the NFL’s all‑time touchdown list, throwing his 540th TD pass to Darnell Washington in the Steelers’ 10‑3 win over the New Orleans Saints in Week 7. The milestone moves Rodgers into third place, 31 touchdowns behind Drew Brees and well behind Tom Brady’s record 649. The article highlights the historic feat amid the Steelers’ recent matchup and notes upcoming topics like new uniform debuts and key players to watch.
Steelers vs. Saints: Week 7 game chat
The Steelers (4-2) face the Saints (2-4) in an NFL Week 7 International Game at Stade de France in Paris, kicking off at 9:30 a.m. EST. Pittsburgh, sitting second in the AFC North, aims to protect its title chase, while New Orleans looks to rebound in the NFC South. The matchup streams on NFL Network and NFL+, with additional coverage on Steelers.com. The post also links to related Steelers news, including a defensive lineman on IR, a cancelled Paris fan event, Jalen Ramsey’s AFC Defensive Player of the Week honor, and T.J. Watt’s wife’s comments about the Paris game.
Steelers vs. Saints: Alternate game chat
Welcome to the alternate game thread for the week. Enjoy your breakfast and coffee with some AM football. Let us know what you think in the comments. Be sure to bookmark Behind the Steel Curtain for all the latest news, breakdowns, and more!
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