Steelers Receive Worst NFLPA Report Card Grade Among All NFL Teams

Stephen A. Smith criticizes team president Art Rooney II over poor facilities and field conditions

Feb. 27, 2026 at 9:25pm

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The Pittsburgh Steelers received the lowest grade among all 32 NFL teams in the latest NFLPA report card, with the team's home field, locker room, and strength and conditioning staff all receiving failing marks. ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith blasted the Steelers organization under Rooney's leadership, saying "no wonder Mike Tomlin left" given the poor facilities and lack of investment.

Why it matters

The Steelers' dismal NFLPA report card highlights ongoing issues with the team's facilities and playing conditions, which could impact player satisfaction, recruitment, and performance. As one of the NFL's most storied franchises, the Steelers' struggles in this area are seen as a significant departure from their traditionally high standards under previous ownership.

The details

According to the NFLPA report, the Steelers were criticized for the poor condition of the Acrisure Stadium grass, with players citing "inadequate maintenance and excessive wear" from hosting college and high school games. The team's locker room also received an 'F' grade, with players reporting only five bathroom stalls for the entire team. The Steelers' strength and conditioning staff were ranked last in the NFL, while the training staff ranked first.

  • The Steelers finished in last place in the 4-year history of the NFLPA annual report cards.
  • For the third consecutive year, the Miami Dolphins ranked first overall in the survey.

The players

Art Rooney II

The president of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who has been criticized for the team's lack of investment in facilities and playing conditions.

Mike Tomlin

The former head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who left the team after 19 seasons, according to ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith.

Stephen A. Smith

An ESPN commentator who strongly criticized the Steelers organization under Art Rooney II's leadership, saying "no wonder Mike Tomlin left" given the poor facilities and lack of investment.

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What they’re saying

“No wonder Mike Tomlin left. Clearly he can take a year off and there'll be better situations. He'll never speak against the Pittsburgh Steelers 'cause they gave him the opportunity of a lifetime, and he coached there for 19 year. But this organization under Art Rooney II, I mean right now it looks like a disgrace compared to what his family has established for so many years.”

— Stephen A. Smith (First Take)

What’s next

The Steelers are addressing the field condition issue by installing a new playing surface for the 2026 season, using a blend of Bermuda and bluegrass called Tahoma 31 Bermuda that is already in use at other NFL stadiums.

The takeaway

The Steelers' poor NFLPA report card highlights the need for the organization, under Art Rooney II's leadership, to significantly invest in upgrading their facilities and playing conditions in order to maintain their status as one of the NFL's premier franchises and provide their players with a high-quality work environment.