Post-NFL Draft Power Rankings: Steelers now considered a middle-of-the-road team

There are certain websites who love to rock the boat. Why? Because they know it will create discussion. It is a solid business model for a site trying to drive traffic to their website, and ESPN, among others, is atop the heap when it comes to this style of online journalism.

One of the things ESPN does so well are their periodical Power Rankings articles. They don’t just put them out weekly during the season, but also throughout other parts of the calendar year.

Pre-Free Agency Power Rankings
Post-Free Agency Power Rankings
Post-NFL Draft Power Rankings

You get the picture, but while we all recognize these rankings are meaningless, it is a good place to take a look at how your favorite team, in this case the Pittsburgh Steelers, stack up against their peers in the NFL.

For the beloved black-and-gold, it seems like ages ago when they were considered a Top 5 team on rankings like this one. They always applauded the offensive line, franchise quarterback and the ‘Killer B’s’. While the quarterback and line remain the same, plenty of other aspects have changed.

After the 2019 NFL Draft, and the Steelers adding 9 players to their current roster, the folks at ESPN have decided the Steelers are nothing more than a middle-of-the-road team. Take a look at their latest rankings below, and let us know what you think in the comment section below!

1. Kansas City Chiefs
2. New Orleans Saints
3. Los Angeles Rams
4. New England Patriots
5. Indianapolis Colts
6. Los Angeles Chargers
7. Chicago Bears
8. Houston Texans
9. Atlanta Falcons
10. Philadelphia Eagles
...
15. Cleveland Browns
16. Pittsburgh Steelers

“Projected wins: 8.5

Chance to make playoffs: 45.8 percent

Where the team improved this offseason: Pass coverage. The Steelers have shown a commitment to improving their pass defense over the past three months. The signing of free agent Steven Nelson gives Pittsburgh a legitimate starting corner alongside Joe Haden. The franchise drafted linebacker Devin Bush No. 10 overall in part because of his speed and coverage ability, areas in which free-agent linebacker Mark Barron also will help. Third-round cornerback Justin Layne was considered one of the most aggressive press corners in the draft. The back end looks stronger, which is necessary for a team that has struggled drafting cornerbacks in recent years.”

17. Baltimore Ravens