Five open questions as Steelers get set to start training camp

As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare to descend upon St. Vincent College in Latrobe this Wednesday, a palpable sense of anticipation hangs in the air. Unlike previous offseasons fraught with significant uncertainty, the black and gold arrive with clarity on two of the most pressing issues that loomed large just months ago. The quarterback situation, once a swirling vortex of speculation, has settled decisively with Kenny Pickett firmly entrenched as the undisputed starter, having demonstrated flashes of franchise potential in his rookie campaign. Likewise, the continuity of offensive coordinator Matt Canada, a subject of much debate, provides a consistent framework for the unit, allowing players to build upon established schemes rather than learning a new playbook from scratch. With these foundational pieces in place, the focus shifts, revealing a new set of pivotal questions that training camp is poised to address.

Perhaps the most critical question orbiting the Steelers' readiness for the 2023 season revolves around the offensive line. While improvements were evident last year, particularly in pass protection, the consistency in run blocking remains a concern. Specifically, who will solidify the left guard position, and can the unit as a whole generate more push up front to unleash Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren? The development of second-year center Mason Cole and right tackle Chuks Okorafor, coupled with the integration of potential new starters or depth pieces, will dictate whether the Steelers can truly establish a dominant ground game and provide Pickett with the clean pockets needed to elevate his play. Their performance in the trenches will be a bellwether for the entire offense's ceiling.

Another significant area of inquiry lies within the secondary, particularly at the cornerback position. While the addition of veteran Patrick Peterson brings experience and versatility, questions persist regarding the depth and reliability opposite him. Can promising young talents like Joey Porter Jr. or Cory Trice Jr. make an immediate impact and push for starting roles? The competition for snaps will be fierce, and the ability of these new faces to quickly adapt to the NFL game and contribute meaningfully will be crucial for a defense that relies heavily on its ability to cover and force turnovers. Beyond the starters, the development of reliable nickel and dime options will be paramount for defensive coordinator Teryl Austin's schemes.

On the defensive side, beyond the star power of T.J. Watt and Minkah Fitzpatrick, the depth and consistency of the inside linebacker group and the defensive line rotation bear close scrutiny. Can new acquisitions like Cole Holcomb and Elandon Roberts provide the stability and playmaking ability that has been missing at inside linebacker in recent years? Their ability to command the middle of the field against both the run and the pass will be a key determinant of the defense's overall effectiveness. Simultaneously, who steps up alongside Cameron Heyward and Larry Ogunjobi on the defensive line? The continued development of second-year players like DeMarvin Leal and Isaiahh Loudermilk is vital for maintaining a strong pass rush and stout run defense throughout a grueling 17-game schedule.

Finally, the performance of the incoming rookie class and the leap taken by second-year players will be under the microscope. Beyond the highly-touted first-round picks, which unheralded draftees or undrafted free agents will emerge as pleasant surprises, carving out roles on special teams or as rotational players? Simultaneously, the sophomore slump is a real phenomenon, but so is the significant jump in production. Can George Pickens refine his route running and become a more consistent target? Will Calvin Austin III finally get a chance to showcase his explosive speed? Training camp offers the first real glimpse into these players' readiness to contribute and the overall trajectory of the team's young talent, providing the first tangible answers to the questions that will define the Steelers' 2023 campaign.