Calvin Austin III, the Pittsburgh Steelers' promising wide receiver, expressed his admiration for Pittsburgh after being drafted. He was captivated by the city's beauty upon his arrival, describing the breathtaking view through the tunnels. Meanwhile, Mike Tomlin's son, Dino, made an impression at Boston College's pro day, showcasing potential as a future NFL player despite limited college stats.

Joey Porter Jr. eagerly anticipates returning to the field, posting a photo on social media that hints at his readiness. The Steelers may also be eyeing Kirk Cousins of the Atlanta Falcons as a backup plan if they miss out on Aaron Rodgers. The league is abuzz with discussions about extending the season to 18 games, which has drawn mixed reactions from players.

Darius Slay Jr., the six-time Pro Bowler, has officially joined the Pittsburgh Steelers on a one-year, fully guaranteed deal worth $10 million. This strategic move by the Steelers adds a seasoned cornerback to their secondary, which already boasts standout players like Minkah Fitzpatrick and rookie Joey Porter Jr., the team's recent second-round draft pick.

Slay, who spent the last five seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, is coming off a productive year, posting 49 tackles, 13 passes defended, and a reputation as a defensive leader. His arrival in Pittsburgh aligns with the team's trend of adding veteran players to support younger talents, enhancing their defensive lineup significantly.

Jalen Milroe, a Katy native and former Alabama quarterback, is gearing up for the NFL after four challenging seasons in the SEC. He cites this experience as critical preparation for the professional level. Milroe faced adversity, including being a backup to Bryce Young, struggling early in his starting role, and adapting to three offensive coordinators in four years. Despite setbacks, such as a reduced passing efficiency in his final season, Milroe excelled as a runner, rushing for over 700 yards. His competitive spirit and exposure to various defensive schemes have helped him develop a strong football IQ, which he believes will serve him well in the NFL.

Roman Wilson's rookie season with the Pittsburgh Steelers was marred by injuries, limiting his opportunities to showcase his skills. However, his former teammate Will Johnson, a top cornerback prospect for the upcoming NFL Draft, believes Wilson can bounce back in 2025. Johnson praised Wilson's speed and agility, noting their competitive practice sessions at Michigan, where Wilson excelled during their national championship run in 2023.

After being selected in the third round of the 2024 draft, Wilson faced an ankle injury that sidelined him during the preseason. Although he returned by Week 3, he played sparingly and ended up on the reserve/injured list due to a hamstring injury. With the Steelers' receiving corps lacking depth beyond standout George Pickens, Wilson's potential for a breakout sophomore season remains high.

The Pittsburgh Steelers' season concluded with a 28-14 defeat against the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC wild-card round, marking a disappointing sixth consecutive playoff loss. A clear issue emerged: head coach Mike Tomlin's apparent disconnect with the team during a season that started with promise. Players like linebacker Patrick Queen and receiver George Pickens voiced concerns about complacency and a lack of optimism, respectively, indicating deeper cultural issues within the organization.

Despite a strong start in the season, the Steelers lacked a clear identity, especially after switching quarterbacks. The defensive unit, which had been the most expensive in the league, faltered significantly down the stretch, allowing a staggering 299 rushing yards in the playoff game. Tomlin's coaching decisions are under scrutiny, particularly regarding the team's failure to adapt during critical moments.