/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69663737/usa_today_16438749.0.jpg)
We have talked at length about how the Pittsburgh Steelers have been trashed around the league for a number of reasons. Mainly the topic many latch onto is the weaknesses of the offensive side of the football. Whether their concerns are legitimate, like worrying about an old quarterback in a new school scheme. Or an ignorant take like saying the Steelers offensive line is terrible despite having been completely rebuilt with a brand new scheme, this side of the football can't seem to catch a break.
But regardless of how many expectations they overcome, a few key players will be the difference makers in whether the offense will succeed or not.
Below are some of the favorites to become the Steelers best offensive player here in the 2021 season.
Chase Claypool
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/21968529/usa_today_14956237.jpg)
When it comes to picking a receiver to nominate as having the potential of being the Steelers best offensive player Chase Claypool's name is the one that rises to the top. We basically know what we have in JuJu Smith-Schuster in this offense, and Diontae Johnson’s development has remained fairly flat from year to year. That means the player with the most potential and star ability is ‘MapleTron’ himself. Claypool’s big frame and elite level speed make him a legitimate threat of becoming the Steelers true number one wide receiver. If he can put it all together in his sophomore season, he could dominate the football field the same way AJ Brown, or DK Metcalf do.
Kevin Dotson
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/22752506/usa_today_15294527.jpg)
Dotson was arguably the Steelers best offensive lineman a year ago and now will finally have a starting spot for himself. He is a mauler that was somehow even better in pass protection as a rookie. This kid could be exactly what the Steelers need in turning around their offensive line problems. I anticipate the ball being ran behind Dotson many times a game in 2021 and if he can develop into a top dominating guard the Steelers will have already found the focal point of its line for another decade.
Ben Roethlisberger
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/22752507/usa_today_11442851.jpg)
The Steelers desperately need Ben Roethlisberger to be their best player, but Roethlisberger might not still have that in him. If he does, great, they can ride their franchise quarterback into another playoff berth. But Ben doesn’t have to be that guy to accomplish the same results. If Roethlisberger can just be a game manager and make the smart plus the Steelers could be better off. Plus, Roethlisberger might avoid adding any extra stress onto his body.
Najee Harris
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/22737299/usa_today_16443702.jpg)
The Steelers bell-cow running back will be a fixture of the teams offense in 2021. This kid will touch the ball between 20-30 times per game, and in all honestly will be the player Matt Canada designs his game plans around. But can he be the focal point and top dog? Harris has the skills to dominate on the ground, air, and has shown an ability to block at training camp. It seems like everything is coming together for the Steelers first round pick.
...for the record this would be my pick.
But what do you think? Who will be the Steelers best offensive player in 2021? Hit up the poll below and put your thoughts down in the comments!
Poll
Who will be the Steelers best offensive player in 2021?
This poll is closed
-
19%
Chase Claypool
-
5%
Kevin Dotson
-
21%
Ben Roethlisberger
-
49%
Najee Harris
-
4%
Other (Comment Below)
Loading comments...