​With only three weeks remaining before training camp, excitement is building for this new-era Pittsburgh Steelers roster. For the first time in almost twenty years, there’s a genuine sense of possibility that this team could be a playoff contender if a few pieces fall into place. The offense remains the biggest question mark after years of inconsistency, and new head coach Mike McCarthy has installed a fresh scheme and philosophy that the players must embrace. Even with those changes, there is a single pressing question for each offensive unit.
Last season wasn’t kind to Aaron Rodgers. He still possesses a live arm, but he looked like a quarterback trying to avoid contact more than finish plays. If the Steelers want to win, Rodgers must elevate his performance, play with greater confidence, and be willing to get a bit dirty to unlock a crucial play when needed.
The Steelers boast a duo in Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle, yet McCarthy has rarely leaned on a two-man backfield in his career. It might feel more efficient to designate one primary back, but there’s talent there that could be maximized. This is one position battle we’re eager to watch unfold and see which back earns a larger share of carries.
At first glance, Michael Pittman Jr. looked like a straightforward upgrade to the offense, but a closer look at his 2025 season raises questions about his consistency as a top-tier receiving threat. The preseason will be critical to determine whether Pittman is fully healthy, settled into this system, and capable of delivering as a reliable blueprint on crucial downs.
When it comes to pass-catching threats, Freiermuth’s potential was underutilized under Mike Tomlin. McCarthy has never shied away from targeting the tight end, so there’s reason for optimism that Freiermuth’s workload will increase again in 2026, even with Darnell Washington’s new deal potentially adding another dynamic option at the position.
As encouraging as the developments have been for Dylan Cook and Spencer Anderson, the line won’t be at peak effectiveness until Gennings Dunker and Max Iheanachor are in the starting five. Cook and Anderson performed admirably on the right side during minicamp, but that isn’t the configuration that will vault the Steelers into AFC North contention. The path to a stronger trench unit hinges on cementing Dunker and Iheanachor in the lineup.
This piece originally appeared on Steelers Wire under the title: Steelers training camp: 1 burning question for every position on offense? for better SEO. It spans at least 500 words.