Steelers Boost Roster with Major Trades, Top NFL Salaries

The Pittsburgh Steelers have undergone an aggressive and expensive roster overhaul in 2025, highlighted by major trades and significant contract extensions for key players. They acquired wide receiver DK Metcalf and cornerback Jalen Ramsey via trades, signing both to multi-year, high-value deals, and secured a historic three-year, $123 million extension for edge rusher T.J. Watt, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL. Despite these moves, ESPN ranked the Steelers only 19th overall, citing their defensive edge rushers as a strength but offensive tackles as a notable weakness due to injuries and inexperience. As training camp begins, the Steelers' defensive line features a blend of veteran leadership from Cameron Heyward and youthful promise with recent draft picks like Derrick Harmon and Yahya Black, aiming to rebound after a disappointing 2024 season. Financially, the team's salary cap heavily favors defense, particularly linebackers and the secondary, while investments in wide receivers and running backs remain relatively modest, aside from marquee signings like Metcalf and Jonnu Smith. Overall, the Steelers' bold offseason strategy reflects a commitment to improving their playoff prospects despite some remaining positional concerns.