The world champion Pittsburgh Steelers are already underdogs once again. Just two days after defeating the Seahawks to win their fifth NFL title, Las Vegas has posted odds on who will win the championship next year. The Steelers check in at 6/1, behind Indianapolis, Seattle, and New England. The Carolina Panthers also open with a 6/1 shot to win next year's title.
The Steelers figure to return the bulk of the offense that closed the season on an eight-game winning streak, as well as much of the defense. As we spend the coming weeks and months looking at next year's team, we'll assess the Steelers chances of repeating. The AFC is awfully tough, but a repeat title is not out of the question. Still, many questions need to be answered in the offseason:
*Will Antoine Randle El resign with the Steelers for a hometown discount, or depart for more money? If he leaves, who will slide in to be the Steelers #2 receiver and potential big play guy?
*With not much room to work with in the salary cap, where will the Steelers focus their energies?
*Will Ken Wisenhunt be back to coordinate the offense or will he take the coaching job in Oakland?
*Can Willie Parker be an every down running back for a full season?
*Where should the Steelers focus their draft?
Keep checking in regularly for updates on all these offseason questions.
--PB--