Adam Schein Calls Steelers the Surest 2026 Bet After Major Offseason Additions

The outlook for the 2026 Pittsburgh Steelers remains one of the NFL's most polarizing topics. Whether the discussion comes from local Pittsburgh media or national analysts, there is little consensus about what to expect. One voice that has consistently doubted the Steelers throughout this decade is Adam Schein. Since 2020, Schein has frequently criticized the franchise, often with good reason. However, he has recently changed his tune and now believes the Steelers offer the surest bet of the 2026 season.

Schein discussed the Steelers on the New York Post Sports channel and praised the team's offseason. He even applauded the acquisition of Michael Pittman Jr., a move that some analysts have surprisingly criticized.

“I feel like Aaron Rodgers has a ton of gas left in the tank … Mike McCarthy is a phenomenal coach,” Schein said. “Love what they did in the offseason … Michael Pittman Jr., what a phenomenal, terrific, tremendous acquisition.”

Are the Steelers the best bet in 2026?

Few people consider the Steelers legitimate Super Bowl contenders. However, some might view them as playoff contenders, depending on which sportsbook you consult. Schein believes their season win total presents the best betting value on the board.

“I’m obsessed! I think people are sleeping on the Steelers. My personal favorite bet of them all … bang the over for the win total.” Schein declared.

Sportsbooks currently list the Steelers' win total between 7.5 and 8.5 games. Schein is essentially predicting a nine-win season or better. Pittsburgh has finished 10-7 in each of the past three seasons and won the division once during that stretch. The Steelers also had a legitimate chance to claim a second division title before a late-season collapse in 2024.

Schein also remains much higher than many analysts on several aspects of Pittsburgh's roster and offseason approach.

Schein loves the Steelers' offseason moves

Aaron Rodgers remains the franchise's most polarizing offseason move. Outlets such as ESPN criticized both the decision to sign Rodgers and the trade for Pittman. Schein, however, is bullish on both moves. A closer look provides plenty of reasons for optimism. Not only could these additions improve the Steelers in 2026, but they could also produce dividends in 2027 and beyond.

The immediate benefit is pairing Rodgers with Mike McCarthy's offense. Few quarterbacks understand McCarthy's system better than Rodgers, whose years of experience in it should help accelerate the transition. The Steelers also needed a proven receiver opposite DK Metcalf. Although Germie Bernard has shown promise, relying on a rookie to fill that role would have been risky. Instead, Pittsburgh landed a proven veteran in Pittman.

The long-term benefits extend beyond 2026. Bernard and Roman Wilson can develop alongside two established veterans, while young quarterbacks Drew Allar and Will Howard will have the opportunity to learn under McCarthy and observe a future Hall of Fame quarterback every day. Rodgers offers as much experience and football knowledge as any veteran in the league. That combination puts Pittsburgh in a strong position to develop its quarterback of the future while giving Rodgers one last dance to compete before he retires.