Steelers’ former Super Bowl champion suggests mid-season collapse in 2024

"This is difficult because I believe the team is better, former Steelers Super Bowl champion and analyst Ryan Clark said on ESPN. "One, you get better when you hire Arthur Smith as the offensive coordinator. Some of the things that Omar Khan did during the offseason gives me optimism. But I'm saying less [than 10 wins] because of how daunting this schedule is toward the end of the season. That's normally when we've seen the Pittsburgh Steelers, who find a way to playoff contention every year, get wins and find themselves in the playoffs as a wild card. But this year, I believe they'll be figuring out who they are early with Russell Wilson, then transitioning to Justin Fields around the bye week and trying to face those six division opponents along with the Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs to finish, which will be difficult for any football team."

A candid take, I could honestly see a very similar scenario. Russell Wilson is the starter, but that's for now. 

I believe it's only a matter of time until Justin Fields is the team's signal caller. 

Whether that comes a few weeks into camp, a few weeks into the season, or after the bye week, Pittsburgh will turn to Fields. 

That's not to say Wilson will be bad, but Arthur Smith's offense is more conducive to having a dynamic running threat at QB. 

Wilson showed an ability to re-kindle his movement skills in 2023, but no one worth their salt is comparing his athleticism to Fields'. 

As a pure QB, sure Wilson is better. But we know Pittsburgh wants to, and will primarily run the ball. 

They told you that when they hired Smith and then drafted three offensive linemen in their first five picks. 

So to me, 9 to 10 wins seems about right for the Steelers. With a win total of 8.5, you would be wise to bet the over.

If Tomlin and Co. figured out a way to conjure up double-digit wins with three different QBs, an injured defense, and tons of locker room issues in 2023, one would think a similar if not improved total would show itself in 2024.