The Steelers sit 6-2, leading the AFC North, and may become buyers at the trade deadline. Analyst Daniel Jeremiah says Indianapolis Colts receiver Josh Downs feels “redundant” in Pittsburgh’s depth chart, making him a viable target, while former Steelers receiver Brian Thomas Jr. emerges as the most logical addition according to Jeremiah. Both WRs are linked to a potential trade as the Steelers look to bolster their offense before the season’s final stretch.
In the latest Steelers Afternoon Drive podcast, hosts Alan Saunders and Zachary Smith break down the Steelers' recent victory over the Cleveland Browns, examining how the win could shape the team’s trade‑deadline strategy. They assess the sustainability of Pittsburgh’s run defense and rushing attack, highlighting standout performances and potential roster moves ahead of the November 12 deadline.
Steelers linebacker J.J. Ramsey attributes the dramatic turnaround of Pittsburgh’s defense to veteran coach Mike Tomlin’s vision, saying, “It was Mike T’s vision for me.” After a lackluster 2025 campaign, the unit now ranks sixth in the NFL, limiting opponents to just 305.6 yards per game and allowing only two touchdowns in recent weeks. Ramsey highlights key adjustments and the impact of Tomlin’s leadership on the resurgence, signaling the Steelers’ defense as a major factor in their 2026 playoff push.
The AFC roundup notes that Bengals DT DJ Turner is day‑to‑day with a heel injury but may suit up in Week 9, while DE Cedric Johnson is also a game‑time possibility. Browns DE Jared Verse fires back at the Steelers after a lackluster performance, maintaining his trash‑talk despite a modest stat line, and Cleveland remains hesitant to move WR Jerry Jeudy amid a 5‑2 record. The Steelers are rumored to chase a receiver, though they may balk at market price, and WR Michael Pittman Jr. battles a lingering foot injury that could see him back after the bye. Meanwhile, WR Germie Bernard brushes off the trade chatter, staying focused on the field.
Eight MLB players receive $23.15 million qualifying offers, according to Joel Sherman (NY Post). The list includes Randy Arozarena (Mariners), Jake Bauers (Brewers), David Bednar (Yankees), Ryan Jeffers (Twins), Brandon Lowe (Pirates), Adrián Morejón (Padres), Trevor Rogers (Orioles) and Seiya Suzuki (Cubs). Players have until 3 p.m. CT on Nov 17 to accept or reject, and can negotiate elsewhere in the meantime. If they sign elsewhere, the original club gets draft‑pick compensation while the new club faces penalties. The article notes the rarity of relievers like Bednar and Morejón receiving QOs and highlights the Padres’ new ownership context.
With Aaron Rodgers in his final season, the Steelers face a critical wide‑receiver shortage as Michael Pittman Jr. and Roman Wilson sit on IR. General manager Omar Khan has a narrow window during the bye week before the trade deadline to add a dependable target. The article lists potential trade candidates—Josh Downs, Brian Thomas Jr., Jauan Jennings, Dontayvion Wicks, Chris Godwin, Stefon Diggs, and Quentin Johnston—while noting that Garrett Wilson and the Chargers’ prospects are off‑limits. It warns against re‑signing George Pickens, who may not fit Rodgers’ style, and urges a swift, focused move to give the Steelers a stronger passing attack for a Super Bowl push.
The Steelers defensive coordinator opened up about a memorable bus ride following a difficult loss and how music helped him reflect.
Former Steelers fans doubted the hiring of veteran coach Mike McCarthy, craving a youthful reset after Mike Tomlin’s stagnant stretch. Yet Pete Prisco argues the NFL is finally recognizing McCarthy’s impact as Pittsburgh clinches six wins under his steady leadership, proving the ‘fresh voice’ may be exactly what the franchise needed.
DK’s Double Shot of Steelers: Is Jaylen Warren elite?
The Pittsburgh Steelers still have doubters as they sit atop the AFC North.
The Terrible Take returns with Episode 2,069, a bite‑size, daily 1–3‑minute podcast from Steelers Depot released Nov 2, 2026 at 5:30 PM EST. Hosted by Alex Kozora, Dave Bryan, Josh Carney, Ross McCorkle, Melanie Friedlander, Jake Brockhoff and Joe Clark, the show delivers quick, unfiltered takes on the latest Steelers news and NFL buzz. Listeners get a rapid rundown of the hosts’ thoughts on game results, player performances and league storylines, making it a perfect snack for fans on the go.
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren has had a 2026 season to remember thus far.
The Milwaukee Brewers exercised their $14.5 million option on catcher William Contreras while declining a $14 million option on reliever Antonio Senzatela and the $8.5 million mutual option on backup catcher Gary Sánchez. They also extended a qualifying offer to Jake Bauers and let Dustin May opt out of a $20 million mutual deal. On the roster front, outfielder Akil Baddoo is claimed off waivers by Pittsburgh, and relievers Bryse Wilson and Jared Koenig clear waivers, with both now free agents.
The Pirates have claimed outfielder Akil Baddoo off waivers from the Brewers, according to announcements from both clubs. More to come.
The Steelers rebound with a decisive Week 8 victory over the Browns, reversing an earlier loss and seizing first place in the AFC North. Former NFL safety (name omitted) questions whether Pittsburgh can hold the division crown, especially as Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson faces a season‑ending injury. The article examines the Steelers' performance, key plays, and the impact of Baltimore's quarterback uncertainty on the AFC North race.
Julian Edelman praises the Steelers' ground attack, calling it the best offense they've had since Ben Roethlisberger retired. Riding a four‑game winning streak and a dominant victory over the Browns, Pittsburgh’s rushing game is delivering consistent positives, according to the former NFL wide receiver. Edelman highlights key contributors and explains how the fresh ground focus is reshaping the team’s identity and boosting its playoff prospects.
The Seattle Mariners add depth ahead of free‑agency day, claiming right‑hander Isaac Mattson from the Pittsburgh Pirates and outfielder Grant McCray from the San Francisco Giants. Mattson, a 31‑year‑old reliever with a 93‑96 mph fastball and solid secondary slider and changeup, brings a much‑needed upgrade to Seattle’s middle‑relief corps. McCray, a 25‑year‑old with elite speed, a strong arm and a 12% barrel rate, offers versatile defensive coverage but has struggled with contact, striking out 40% of his swings. Both retain minor‑league options through 2027, giving the Mariners flexibility as they trim the 40‑man roster.
The Pittsburgh Steelers extend their winning streak to four after a 27-6 demolition of the Cleveland Browns in Week 8, propelling them into a Week 9 bye with momentum high. First‑year head coach Mike McCarthy uses the break to reward players, signaling confidence as the Steelers vie for the AFC North lead.
In Week 8 at Acrisure Stadium, Steelers edge rusher Alex Highsmith exacts revenge on Browns rookie left tackle Spencer Fano, who had limited him to two pressures in their Week 4 duel. Armed with fresh film, Highsmith dominates the line, generating multiple sacks and pressures that fuel Pittsburgh’s blowout victory over Cleveland. The article breaks down the play-by-play adjustments, highlights Highsmith’s impact on the Steelers’ pass rush, and recaps the final score of the rout.
The Steelers, 6-2 and atop the AFC North after a 27-6 win over Cleveland, are reportedly scouting Jets star wideout Garrett Wilson before the trade deadline. NFL insider Jason La Canfora hinted at interest on X, noting a potential deal would likely require at least a first‑round pick. Wilson, who posted a career‑high 101 catches for 1,104 yards and seven TDs with quarterback Aaron Rodgers in 2024, could give Pittsburgh a premier pass‑catcher as they chase a playoff run. However, the rebuilding Jets may prefer to keep him for their future quarterback, making the trade costly and uncertain.
After a humiliating 27-6 rout of the Cleveland Browns in Week 8, the Steelers not only avenged their Week 4 loss but also silenced former Browns cornerback Hanford Dixon, who had publicly doubted Pittsburgh’s ability to bounce back. Dixon’s earlier boast—calling the Steelers “out of their depth”—sparked extra fire for the Steelers, who dominated with a strong defensive showing and efficient offense to secure the win. The article recaps the revenge victory, highlights key moments and players, and details Dixon’s backpedaling after the Steelers’ decisive performance.
Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham admits he used an off‑beat tactic to revive the Steelers’ defense: he asked players to write book reports on famous musicians and later turned to his own music picks for inspiration. After a rough start, Graham says the unconventional focus on music helped reset the unit’s mindset, sparking a noticeable improvement in performance. The article details his strategy, player reactions, and early results as Pittsburgh pushes toward the playoff race.
Steelers offensive coordinator admits the team may overhaul its red‑zone approach after a solid 27‑6 victory over the Browns on Sunday. Pittsburgh’s defense shut out Cleveland, while the offense sustained long drives, yet red‑zone efficiency remains a concern. The coach says the issue is “something we’re certainly gonna look at,” hinting at possible scheme tweaks ahead of the season’s final stretch.
After a 28‑17 Week 8 loss to the Steelers, Browns head coach Todd Monken says the team must let their on‑field performance answer the rivalry’s trash talk. Speaking to reporter Mary Kay Cabot, Monken emphasized, “speak with your play,” and pledged the mantra will stay weekly. Defensive end Jared Verse, who earlier called the Steelers “dirty,” stands by his comments, blaming the loss on a lack of execution rather than words. Cleveland’s offense, led by Deshaun Watson, was sacked eight times for just 319 yards, while the Steelers’ ground game, highlighted by Jaylen Warre’s 143 rushing yards and a TD, dictated the game. Monken’s focus on effort over banter sets the tone for the Browns moving forward.
Entering Week 8 with a chip on their shoulder, the Pittsburgh Steelers avenge their earlier loss to the Cleveland Browns by delivering a dominant defensive performance in the rematch. James Harrison admits his previous criticism of the defense is now silenced as the unit overwhelms the Browns, securing a decisive victory that underscores the Steelers’ renewed resolve.