The Pittsburgh Steelers’ offense experienced a stark reality check during their joint practice with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. While joint practices are an invaluable opportunity for teams to simulate game-like conditions and test themselves against different schemes and personnel, the Steelers’ offensive unit learned some harsh truths that could shape their approach heading into the regular season.
One of the most noticeable takeaways from the practice sessions was the apparent struggle of Pittsburgh’s offensive line. The Steelers have been looking to rebuild their offensive line for several seasons now, but it’s been a slow process. This joint practice served as a reminder of just how far they still need to go in terms of creating a cohesive and effective front. The Buccaneers, known for their aggressive defensive front, applied constant pressure on quarterback Kenny Pickett, making it clear that the Steelers’ offensive line has yet to find consistent success in pass protection.
For a team that has spent much of the offseason addressing its struggles in protecting the quarterback and creating running lanes, this practice revealed just how much work is left to do. The Buccaneers’ front seven, led by formidable players like Vita Vea and Shaquil Barrett, made it difficult for Pickett to feel comfortable in the pocket, forcing him into hurried throws and missed opportunities. This is a significant concern for Pittsburgh, especially as they try to develop their young quarterback into a reliable leader for the offense. If Pickett can’t trust his offensive line to give him time to read defenses and deliver accurate passes, it will stunt his growth and limit the potential of the offense.
Additionally, the joint practices highlighted issues with the timing and execution of the offense as a whole. The Steelers have spent a lot of time in camp focusing on improving their passing game, but against a defense as talented as the Buccaneers’, the team struggled to consistently create separation and capitalize on the passing opportunities that were available. Wide receivers like Diontae Johnson and George Pickens were unable to gain the kind of separation necessary for easy completions, and the chemistry between Pickett and his receivers was inconsistent at best. This led to several incomplete passes and misfires, further frustrating the offense.
The struggles didn’t end with the passing game. The running game, which has been a cornerstone of the Steelers’ identity in the past, also faced its challenges. Despite having a talented backfield with Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, the offense was unable to move the ball efficiently on the ground. The Buccaneers’ defense clogged up running lanes and maintained discipline in their assignments, forcing Pittsburgh’s running backs to try and find holes that simply weren’t there.
Perhaps the most eye-opening aspect of the joint practices was how the Buccaneers exploited Pittsburgh’s inability to adjust quickly. Head coach Mike Tomlin, known for his toughness and adaptability, will no doubt see these sessions as a learning experience for his team. The Steelers were forced to confront their deficiencies head-on, and now it’s a matter of how quickly they can adapt. The key takeaway from this experience should be that, while talent is certainly important, execution and adjustments are just as critical when facing high-level competition.
The harsh truth that the Steelers’ offense learned during the joint practice with the Buccaneers is that they are far from being a finished product. They will need to tighten up their offensive line play, improve their passing game’s timing and chemistry, and find a way to be more productive on the ground. With the season fast approaching, the Steelers have work to do, but these tough lessons learned in practice could serve as the fuel they need to improve and ultimately contend in a tough AFC North division.