Team Profile
Pittsburgh Steelers
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-6.7% 22ndOff DVOA
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31.4% 9thPassing DVOA
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-19.1% 25thRushing DVOA
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-23.1% 6thDef DVOA
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-28.9% 6thDef Passing DVOA
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-15.3% 10thDef Rushing DVOA
2024 Team Stats
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Points For21.5 15th
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Points Against18.0 7th
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Yards Per Game261.0 30th
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Yards Allowed Per Game261.0 5th
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Roman Wilson (ankle) is no longer in a walking boot after being carted off the field nearly a week ago. Even better, he isn't favoring his ankle while walking. The rookie was taken in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft after finishing his final collegiate season by amassing 789 yards and 12 touchdowns off 48 receptions. Hopefully, he'll be back on the field soon. While the injury could delay Wilson's progression, he has a chance to eventually overtake others on the depth chart and emerge as one of the team's top wideouts, giving him long-term appeal for dynasty participants.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (calf) is still in a competitive battle with Justin Fields for the starting job. While the team waits for Wilson's return, Fields has made a strong impression during practice. This situation could disrupt the Steelers' initial plans, as they acquired Wilson to bring stability and experience to their quarterback position. Coach Mike Tomlin has repeatedly stated that Wilson is in "pole position" to secure the starting role. Despite Wilson's less athletic profile than Fields, he is expected to showcase his superiority and reaffirm his status as the preferred starter once he's back. For fantasy managers, Wilson's potential to win the job could positively impact the Steelers' skill players, as he has a proven track record as a facilitator. With Wilson at the helm, expect a significant boost for Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, who would likely see increased rushing attempts and dump-off opportunities. Wilson's presence would also benefit George Pickens, Pat Freiermuth, and rookie Roman Wilson in the passing game.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields has impressed in camp while filling in for Russell Wilson (calf),who is sidelined with a calf injury. Fields has consistently improved throughout training camp, from making highlight-reel throws to delivering steady, play-by-play performances. "Justin has really taken advantage of the opportunity for additional snaps because Russ's been out some here the first week," said head coach Mike Tomlin. Fields has finished among the top quarterbacks in fantasy points per game over the last two seasons, ranking QB5 in 2022 and QB12 in 2023. Although Fields might not elevate the overall passing game in Pittsburgh, he has demonstrated the ability to support a top fantasy wide receiver, so George Pickens should remain a strong option. However, Fields' presence could impact the rushing opportunities for Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, potentially limiting their touches.
Houston Texans wide receiver Ben Skowronek has stood out so far in the early portions of training camp as he looks to earn a roster spot despite mostly working with the second-team offense. Skowronek is a long shot to have a substantial role in his first year in Houston if he even makes the team, but the 6-foot-3, 224-pounder has so far impressed on contested catches down the field. If the 27-year-old is competing with the likes of Noah Brown, Robert Woods and John Metchie III in a crowded receiving corps behind starters Stefon Diggs, Nico Collins and Tank Dell. The former seventh-rounder in 2021 has 58 total receptions for 575 yards and just one touchdown in 45 regular-season games (12 starts) in his three years in the NFL and isn't on the fantasy radar heading into the 2024 season.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (calf) returned to practice on Tuesday in a limited fashion, but the Steelers are going to take things slowly with him. Head coach Mike Tomlin did state that Wilson played some 7-on-7, but "not a lot" of 11-on-11 work. While Wilson is progressing well from his calf injury, it's expected he'll increase his activity soon in preparation for the team's first preseason game on Aug. 9 against the visiting Houston Texans. Embroiled in a fierce quarterback battle with Justin Fields, the 35-year-old Wilson is looking to prove that he still has some productive years as an NFL quarterback. If Wilson is the Week 1 starter for the Steelers, he's a low-end quarterback for single-QB formats and a low-end QB2 in superflex.