Media analysts offer split predictions for Steelers 2026 season

Analysts are divided on the outlook for the Pittsburgh Steelers entering the 2026 NFL season following the transition from head coach Mike Tomlin to Mike McCarthy. Bill Barnwell of ESPN projects the team to secure a wild-card spot in the AFC, citing potential improvements in game management and roster utilization under the new coaching staff. Conversely, Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette expects the team to finish with a losing record. Fittipaldo points to a difficult schedule in the second half of the season, which includes games against several 2025 division winners. He further suggests that the organizational changes initiated by McCarthy may require time to yield measurable results on the field. The team opens the season under new leadership with questions remaining about the immediate impact of the transition.

• 4:37 PMYahoo Sports — Steelers Predictions 2026: ESPN, Post-Gazette Analysts Share Contrasting Views