The Pittsburgh Steelers are undergoing a critical offseason after concluding the 2024 season with five consecutive losses, aiming to break their eight-year playoff win drought. The roster boasts strong young players, particularly on the offensive line with standout rookies Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick. However, the team must address shortcomings, particularly on the defensive line and skill positions, while considering a new quarterback, with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields being prime targets. With approximately $60 million in cap space, the Steelers plan to focus on bolstering their receiver corps and strengthening the defensive line in free agency.

High-profile receivers like Keenan Allen and Amari Cooper could be potential signings, alongside defensive linemen such as B.J. Hill and Javon Kinlaw. The Steelers also have key free agents to manage, including running back Najee Harris, who may command around $7 million per season. The team is also preparing for the 2025 NFL Draft, where their focus will likely be on addressing needs in receiver, defensive line, and cornerback positions. With crucial decisions ahead, including quarterback signings and draft strategies, the Steelers are determined to reshape their fate for the upcoming season.

Derek Stingley Jr., the Houston Texans cornerback, expressed disappointment after not being named a finalist for the 2025 AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year award, which went to Patrick Surtain II of the Denver Broncos. Stingley took to social media with a meme referencing LeBron James' 2016 NBA Finals comeback, hinting at his feelings of being snubbed.

While Surtain led with four interceptions and 11 pass deflections, Stingley had an impressive season with five interceptions and 18 pass deflections. Both were recognized in the Pro Bowl and named First Team All-Pro. Despite the setback, this experience could serve as motivation for Stingley as he builds on his breakout season.

In a surprising turn of events, T.J. Watt of the Pittsburgh Steelers fell short in the race for the 2024 AP Defensive Player of the Year Award, which was awarded to Patrick Surtain II of the Denver Broncos. Surtain's impressive season, featuring 45 tackles and four interceptions, helped secure the title, marking his first win in this category. Meanwhile, Watt, despite a solid performance leading the league with six forced fumbles and finishing with 11.5 sacks, ranked fourth among five finalists.

Watt's candidacy was undermined by a lack of impactful plays in crucial late-season games, as he failed to record a sack in four of his last five contests. While he earned second-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl selection, he withdrew from the latter due to injury. His previous accolades include the 2021 Defensive Player of the Year title.

Pat Surtain II, standout cornerback for the Denver Broncos, was honored as the AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year, highlighting his exceptional season. He is the first player from Alabama to receive this award since its inception in 1971 and only the seventh cornerback to be so recognized. Surtain expressed gratitude during his acceptance speech, crediting his faith, family, and the Broncos organization for their support.

This award capped off a remarkable season for Surtain, who also earned multiple All-Pro selections and was pivotal in the Broncos' defense, ranking first among cornerbacks in several key statistical categories. Selected ninth overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, Surtain has quickly established himself as one of the league's top defenders.

Christian McCaffrey topped the best-selling NFL jersey list for the 2024 season despite a year marred by injuries, appearing in just four games. His visibility was amplified by being featured on the cover of Madden NFL 25. Other top sellers included Patrick Mahomes, Jalen Hurts, Micah Parsons, and Tyreek Hill. Notably, while McCaffrey had the highest total sales, Mahomes led in sales across the most states.

Despite the Chiefs and Eagles' strong jersey sales leading to the Super Bowl, they fell short to the San Francisco 49ers, who had the highest overall sales. The Eagles also performed well, outselling the Steelers in Pennsylvania and the Giants and Jets in New Jersey. A potential Super Bowl victory could further enhance jersey sales for the Eagles, especially given the star power on their roster.