Fox Sports Pans Steelers' Free Agency Moves

Despite key additions, outlet argues Pittsburgh is "worse off" heading into 2026 season.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 10:04am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Fox Sports recently evaluated the Pittsburgh Steelers' free agency activity and determined the team is "worse off" despite adding several key players, including wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. and cornerback Jamel Dean. The outlet cited concerns over the team's quarterback situation as the main reason for the negative assessment.

Why it matters

The Steelers were one of the more active teams in free agency this offseason, addressing needs on both sides of the ball. However, the negative evaluation from a prominent media outlet like Fox Sports could impact public perception of the team's offseason moves and their outlook for the upcoming season.

The details

In their free agency grades, Fox Sports' Ben Arthur argued the Steelers are "worse off" despite adding players like Pittman, Dean, running back Rico Dowdle, and safety Jaquan Brisker. Arthur cited the team's uncertainty at quarterback, with no update on a potential Aaron Rodgers signing, as the primary reason for the negative assessment.

  • The Steelers kicked off the new league year with a flurry of free agent signings in March 2026.

The players

Michael Pittman Jr.

A wide receiver signed by the Steelers in free agency to provide a complementary option opposite DK Metcalf.

Jamel Dean

A cornerback added by the Steelers to bolster their secondary.

Rico Dowdle

A running back signed by the Steelers to upgrade their backfield.

Jaquan Brisker

A safety brought in by the Steelers to strengthen their defensive unit.

Aaron Rodgers

The veteran quarterback who has been linked to a potential move to the Steelers this offseason.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Rico Dowdle is an upgrade over Kenneth Gainwell in the backfield, and the addition of Michael Pittman Jr. gives the Steelers a much-needed running mate to pair with DK Metcalf at receiver. But you can't say Pittsburgh is better off, as it remains in quarterback limbo. There's been no update on Aaron Rodgers, and the available QB options aren't promising, either.”

— Ben Arthur, Fox Sports Writer

What’s next

Steelers fans will be closely monitoring any updates on the team's quarterback situation, particularly regarding a potential Aaron Rodgers signing, in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

While the Steelers made several notable additions in free agency, the uncertainty at quarterback appears to be the primary concern for media outlets evaluating the team's offseason moves. The Steelers will need to address this position in order to earn more positive reviews and be considered legitimate contenders heading into the 2026 season.