The bye week is a perfect opportunity for NFL teams to reflect on what’s worked, what hasn’t, and how the rest of the season will look from here on out — and the Pittsburgh Steelers have more than their fair share to consider this week. Here’s a look at our bye week wish list for the Steelers — from health concerns to acquiring new talent to cracking the offensive line puzzle.
Trade for a wide receiver
Pittsburgh had a glaring need at wide receiver before Austin’s injury — but the unfortunate loss should serve as the catalyst to bring in another talented pass catcher. From our predicted trade targets of Bills’ Curtis Samuel and Saints’ Chris Olave, just to name a few, the Aaron Rodgers-led Steelers need some help, and fast.
Prioritize rest and recovery
With Calvin Austin III (shoulder) and Jalen Ramsey (hamstring) reportedly set to miss multiple weeks with injuries, the bye couldn’t have come at a better time. Additionally, Joey Porter Jr. hasn’t played since leaving the Week 1 contest against the New York Jets early with a hamstring injury. Pittsburgh will need all three of these talented playmakers to protect not only their lead in the AFC North, but also prepare for a deep playoff run down the stretch.
Keep defensive momentum rolling
The defensive adjustments from the first two games of the season to the last two have been night and day — as the Steelers have seemingly found their identity before an important bye week. Whether it’s the much-improved communication or the blitz-heavy schemes, Pittsburgh’s defense needs to be all gas and no brakes coming out of the bye.
Solve offensive line woes
Stop me if you’ve heard this before — Pittsburgh’s offensive line looks terrible. Even after spending major draft capital over the past few years, the Steelers still can’t solve their pass protection or run blocking issues. Some have pointed the finger at offensive line coach Pat Meyer, but former first-round picks LT Broderick Jones and RT Troy Fautanu haven’t done him or the scheme any favors with their poor play early in the season.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers’ bye week wishlist: Keys for remainder of 2025 season
