Within a couple of weeks, the Pittsburgh Steelers will report to Saint Vincent College for the 2026 edition of their annual training camp. The Latrobe sun will fuel the heat of competition as several roster battles take center stage. Some could even make or break the Steelers' season.
Pittsburgh added rookie talent, made notable trades, and signed key free agents to address several areas of the roster heading into 2026. Some of those additions could have an impact beyond this season. For now, here are three positions that could make or break the Steelers' 2026 campaign as training camp begins.
Offensive Tackle
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If there's one position Aaron Rodgers will depend on, it's offensive tackle. Right tackle remains an open competition entering training camp, and the position plays a crucial role in Mike McCarthy's offense. Offensive tackles are often left on an island, forcing defenders to stay in coverage, but potentially exposing the quarterback.
Troy Fautanu was outstanding in 2025. He returns to his natural position at left tackle, where he starred at Washington, and has the potential to become one of the NFL's best. Pittsburgh simply needs to find a reliable answer on the opposite side.
Inside Linebacker
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Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson hold the keys to taking the Steelers' defense to another level. When they play at their best, the defense follows. Queen enters a contract year, while Wilson heads into a pivotal third season. Both have plenty to prove in 2026, and so does the entire defensive unit.
Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham will eventually call on them to rise to the challenge. If there's a coordinator who knows how to maximize his personnel, it's Graham. Now it's up to Queen and Wilson to answer the call.
Safety
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If Jalen Ramsey can't move around the defense, the Steelers will lose one of their biggest advantages. He spent much of late last season locked into the free safety role, and it limited his overall impact. Ramsey's versatility will be critical to Pittsburgh's success, but the defense also needs someone to emerge at free safety during training camp.
The Steelers drafted a safety and signed two free agents to bolster the position. If none of them proves to be a viable option, general manager Omar Khan may need to make a few phone calls.
