Pittsburgh Steelers: 3 burning questions ahead of training camp

3. Can Ben Roethlisberger and/or Najee Harris carry the load?

Ah, the looming question on many minds. Can Roethlisberger right the ship for the Pittsburgh Steelers in what could be his final season? It’s clear that some arm strength has been sapped from him at this point, and injuries from past season have certainly piled up. The quick passing game worked fine to start the season, but the passing game needs to be more diverse in 2021 to have success.

The weapons are there. Chase Claypool had a very good rookie campaign, and Diontae Johnson is becoming one of the best separators in the game. The tight end position is deep with talent with the addition of Pat Freiermuth. It’s now up to Roethlisberger, and Matt Canada, to figure out what can work and get things on track.

Shifting over to Najee Harris, what if the passing game stalls during the season again? Harris may need to be leaned on heavily at times this season. His abilities suggest this is possible, as Harris was an incredible slasher on early downs and can contribute heavily in the passing game. That three down ability will be key, but even more so will be his ability to create yardage after contact with an offensive line working to build chemistry. Will Harris, as a rookie, be up to the challenge of that? We will see.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have their questions, but as teams always seem to do under Mike Tomlin, they find a way. The 2021 season will be a true test.