As the 2025 NFL season looms on the horizon, the Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves facing a daunting slate of opponents. From perennial powerhouses to up-and-coming challengers, the Steelers’ schedule is filled with teams eager to make their mark on the league.
Among the most formidable foes on Pittsburgh’s schedule are the Baltimore Ravens, who have been a thorn in the Steelers’ side for years. Led by quarterback Lamar Jackson, the Ravens are a dynamic and explosive offensive team that can strike from anywhere on the field. The Steelers’ defense will need to be at its best to slow down Jackson and his prolific passing attack.
Another challenging opponent for the Steelers will be the Cleveland Browns, who have quickly emerged as a force in the AFC. With a talented roster led by quarterback Deshaun Watson and running back Nick Chubb, the Browns have the potential to be a major threat in the division. The Steelers will need to find a way to neutralize Watson’s dual-threat ability and limit the impact of Chubb’s powerful running style.
Previewing the Steelers’ 2025 Opponent Slate
A Gridiron Clash of Titans: The Home Games
The Steelers’ 2025 home schedule promises high-octane football with a lineup of formidable adversaries. The undefeated Super Bowl champions, the Cincinnati Bengals, will visit Heinz Field for a thrilling rematch that will test the Steelers’ mettle. The Arizona Cardinals, with their electrifying offense led by Kyler Murray, will make their way to Pittsburgh, promising an aerial assault that will keep the Steeler defense on its toes. The Chicago Bears, seeking to rebuild under a new head coach, will bring a mix of youth and experience to the Steel City. The Denver Broncos, with their rich history and a roster bolstered by recent acquisitions, will pose a stern test for the Steelers’ defense. And finally, the Detroit Lions, under the leadership of quarterback Jared Goff, will bring their tenacity and determination to Pittsburgh, eager to spoil the Steelers’ home turf.
A Test of Will: The Road Games
The Steelers’ road games in 2025 will push them to their limits and test their adaptability. They will travel to the notoriously difficult Lambeau Field to face the Green Bay Packers, a perennial powerhouse with Aaron Rodgers at the helm. The Kansas City Chiefs, under the innovative guidance of Andy Reid and with the dynamic playmaking of Patrick Mahomes, will welcome the Steelers to Arrowhead Stadium for a high-scoring showdown. The Baltimore Ravens, a divisional rival with a fierce defense and a talented offense, will provide a formidable challenge in a game that holds playoff implications. The New England Patriots, under the legendary Bill Belichick, will challenge the Steelers’ discipline and execution in Foxborough. Finally, the Tennessee Titans, led by Derrick Henry’s bruising running style, will provide a physical battle that will require the Steelers to summon all their resolve.
An Unpredictable Journey into the Unknown
The remaining teams on the Steelers’ 2025 schedule hold equal potential for triumph and adversity. The Cleveland Browns, an up-and-coming team with a rising star in Deshaun Watson, will test the Steelers’ resolve in a divisional clash. The Houston Texans, under the enigmatic leadership of Lovie Smith, could prove to be a surprise opponent with a young and hungry roster. The Indianapolis Colts, led by veteran quarterback Matt Ryan, will provide a balanced attack that will challenge both the Steelers’ offense and defense. The Jacksonville Jaguars, with quarterback Trevor Lawrence at the helm and a revitalized defense, will be an exciting matchup that could swing either way. And finally, the Las Vegas Raiders, with the explosive Derek Carr at quarterback and a formidable defense, will bring a unique brand of football to Pittsburgh.
| Week | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cincinnati Bengals | Home |
| 2 | Arizona Cardinals | Home |
| 3 | Chicago Bears | Home |
| 4 | Denver Broncos | Home |
| 5 | Detroit Lions | Home |
| 6 | Green Bay Packers | Away |
| 7 | Kansas City Chiefs | Away |
| 8 | Baltimore Ravens | Away |
| 9 | New England Patriots | Away |
| 10 | Tennessee Titans | Away |
| 11 | Cleveland Browns | Home |
| 12 | Houston Texans | Away |
| 13 | Indianapolis Colts | Home |
| 14 | Jacksonville Jaguars | Away |
| 15 | Las Vegas Raiders | Home |
| 16 | BYE | – |
| 17 | Cincinnati Bengals | Away |
Analyzing the Strengths and Weaknesses of the Steelers’ Opponents
Strengths
The Steelers’ opponents in 2025 possess several strengths that could prove challenging to overcome. Their defenses, in particular, stand out. The Cleveland Browns have a formidable pass rush led by Myles Garrett, while the Baltimore Ravens boast a secondary that includes reigning Defensive Player of the Year, Marlon Humphrey. Additionally, the Cincinnati Bengals have a young and talented receiving corps led by Ja’Marr Chase that could pose a threat to the Steelers’ pass defense.
Weaknesses
Despite their strengths, the Steelers’ opponents also have some exploitable weaknesses. The Browns’ offense, led by quarterback Deshaun Watson, has struggled with consistency and turnovers, while the Ravens’ running game has been lackluster in recent seasons. Furthermore, the Bengals’ offensive line has been shaky, which could lead to pressure on quarterback Joe Burrow and disrupt their passing attack.
The table below provides a more detailed analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the Steelers’ opponents in 2025.
| Team | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| Cleveland Browns | Pass rush, running game | Quarterback play, turnovers |
| Baltimore Ravens | Defense, tight end group | Running game, offensive line |
| Cincinnati Bengals | Receiving corps, quarterback play | Offensive line, pass rush |
Predicting the Steelers’ Record in 2025
Strength of Schedule
The Steelers’ strength of schedule in 2025 will be a major factor in determining their record. They will face three of the top five teams in the NFL last season, including the Kansas City Chiefs, Philadelphia Eagles, and Cincinnati Bengals. They will also face the New England Patriots and Green Bay Packers, who are both perennial contenders. On the other hand, the Steelers will also face some weaker teams, such as the Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Indianapolis Colts.
2025 Steelers Schedule
| Week | Opponent |
|---|---|
| 1 | Kansas City Chiefs |
| 2 | Philadelphia Eagles |
| 3 | Cincinnati Bengals |
| 4 | Cleveland Browns |
| 5 | Baltimore Ravens |
| 6 | Houston Texans |
| 7 | Indianapolis Colts |
| 8 | Jacksonville Jaguars |
| 9 | Tennessee Titans |
| 10 | New England Patriots |
| 11 | Green Bay Packers |
| 12 | Baltimore Ravens |
| 13 | Cleveland Browns |
| 14 | Carolina Panthers |
| 15 | Las Vegas Raiders |
| 16 | Cincinnati Bengals |
| 17 | Buffalo Bills |
Key Additions and Subtractions
The Steelers made some key additions and subtractions to their roster in the offseason. They signed wide receiver Will Fuller V, cornerback James Bradberry, and safety Tyrann Mathieu. They also drafted quarterback Kenny Pickett in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. These additions should help the Steelers improve on both sides of the ball.
However, the Steelers also lost some key players in the offseason. They traded away wide receiver Chase Claypool and linebacker Robert Spillane. They also released cornerback Joe Haden and safety Terrell Edmunds. These losses could hurt the Steelers’ depth and experience.
Overall Outlook
The Steelers have a lot of potential in 2025. They have a young and talented quarterback in Pickett. They also have some key veteran players, such as T.J. Watt and Cam Heyward. However, they will need to stay healthy and play well in order to be a playoff contender.
The Steelers’ schedule is tough, but they should be able to win at least 10 games. They have a lot of talent on both sides of the ball. If they can stay healthy and play well, they could be a surprise team in 2025.
Assessing the Steelers’ Chances of Winning the AFC North
Evaluating the Competition
The Steelers face stiff competition within the AFC North division in 2025. The reigning Super Bowl champions, the Cincinnati Bengals, return a potent offense led by Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase. The Baltimore Ravens, always a formidable defensive force, will be looking to rebound from a disappointing season. And the Cleveland Browns, under the leadership of quarterback Deshaun Watson, have the talent to make a run at the division title.
The Steelers’ Roster
The Steelers have a number of key players returning in 2025, including quarterback Kenny Pickett, wide receiver Diontae Johnson, and defensive tackle Cameron Heyward. However, they have also lost some important pieces, such as linebacker T.J. Watt and wide receiver Chase Claypool. Whether the team can adequately replace these players and maintain their competitive edge remains to be seen.
Offseason Acquisitions
The Steelers made some notable acquisitions in the offseason, including signing free agent linebacker Myles Jack and drafting safety Kenny McIntosh in the first round. These additions could help to bolster the team’s defense, which struggled at times last season. However, it is unclear whether these players will be able to fully fill the void left by Watt’s departure.
Key Matchups
The Steelers have several key matchups on their schedule in 2025, including two games against the Bengals and one game each against the Ravens and Browns. These games will likely determine the winner of the AFC North. The Steelers will need to play their best football in these contests if they want to have a chance at winning the division.
| Week | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cincinnati Bengals | Acrisure Stadium |
| 4 | Baltimore Ravens | M&T Bank Stadium |
| 8 | Cleveland Browns | Acrisure Stadium |
| 13 | Cincinnati Bengals | Paul Brown Stadium |
Identifying Key Matchups for the Steelers in 2025
Week 14: @ Baltimore Ravens
This rivalry needs no introduction, and the 2025 matchup will be no different. Both teams will be looking to make a statement in the AFC North, and the Steelers will need to find a way to slow down Lamar Jackson and the Ravens’ high-powered offense.
Week 15: vs. Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs are always a tough matchup, and the 2025 game will be no exception. Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs’ offense will be a major challenge for the Steelers’ defense, and the Steelers will need to come up with a game plan to limit their scoring.
Week 16: @ Cleveland Browns
The Browns have been a thorn in the Steelers’ side in recent years, and the 2025 matchup will be another tough test. The Browns’ offense is led by Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt, and the Steelers’ defense will need to be at their best to stop them.
Week 17: vs. Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals are another division rival that the Steelers will need to contend with in 2025. The Bengals have a young and talented team, and they will be looking to make a run at the AFC North title. The Steelers will need to be ready for a tough battle.
Week 18: @ Tennessee Titans
The Titans are one of the most physical teams in the NFL, and the 2025 matchup will be a battle of attrition. The Steelers will need to be able to match the Titans’ physicality and come up with big plays in order to win.
| Week | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 14 | Baltimore Ravens | @ Baltimore |
| 15 | Kansas City Chiefs | vs. Kansas City |
| 16 | Cleveland Browns | @ Cleveland |
| 17 | Cincinnati Bengals | vs. Cincinnati |
| 18 | Tennessee Titans | @ Tennessee |
Evaluating the Steelers’ Playoff Prospects in 2025
Assessing the Team’s Key Strengths
The Steelers boast several key strengths that could position them for a successful 2025 campaign. Their foundation lies in a young, talented defense anchored by star linebacker T.J. Watt. The offense, led by budding quarterback Kenny Pickett, has shown signs of promise and is poised for further development. Additionally, the team’s front office has made shrewd acquisitions through the draft and free agency, bolstering both sides of the ball.
Addressing the Team’s Weaknesses
Despite these strengths, the Steelers have areas that need improvement. The offensive line remains a concern, particularly at tackle, where consistent protection for Pickett is crucial. The secondary, while talented, needs depth and stability to handle opponents’ passing attacks effectively. Additionally, the team’s running game has struggled in recent years, and finding a reliable ball-carrier is paramount.
The Schedule’s Impact
The Steelers’ 2025 schedule presents both opportunities and challenges. They face a rugged opening stretch that includes matchups against the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens, both playoff contenders from the previous year. However, they also have a favorable stretch in the middle of the season with several winnable games. The crucial element will be consistency and avoiding costly losses against lesser opponents.
Key Division Matchups
The AFC North remains a competitive division, and the Steelers’ success will depend heavily on their performance within it. Home-and-away matchups against the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns will be pivotal in determining division supremacy. The Steelers must establish dominance in these games to maintain their playoff aspirations.
Playoff Contenders
The AFC playoffs in 2025 will be fiercely contested. The Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Cincinnati Bengals appear to be the early front-runners. The Steelers will need to elevate their play to compete with these powerhouses. Consistency, strong defense, and offensive efficiency will be key factors in determining their playoff fate.
### Projected 2025 Win-Loss Record
| Scenario | Wins | Losses | Record | Playoff Bid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optimistic | 11 | 6 | 11-6 | Yes |
| Realistic | 9 | 8 | 9-8 | Maybe |
| Pessimistic | 7 | 10 | 7-10 | No |
Projecting the Steelers’ Draft Needs Based on Their Opponents
7. Quarterback
With Ben Roethlisberger set to retire after the 2021 season, the Steelers will need to address the quarterback position in the draft. They could target a developmental prospect in the middle rounds or opt for a more experienced signal-caller in the later rounds.
The Steelers could consider drafting a quarterback with a strong arm and good mobility, such as Carson Strong from Nevada or Anthony Richardson from Florida. For a late-round pick, they might look at Matt Corral from Ole Miss or Sam Hartman from Wake Forest.
The addition of a promising quarterback could provide the Steelers with a long-term solution at the position and ensure a smooth transition post-Roethlisberger.
Forecasting the Steelers’ Cap Situation in 2025
Current Cap Situation
The Steelers currently have approximately $18 million in cap space available for the 2023 season. This number is expected to increase slightly over the next two years as some high-priced players come off the books.
Contracts Expiring in 2025
The Steelers have a number of key players whose contracts expire in 2025, including quarterback Kenny Pickett, running back Najee Harris, and wide receiver Diontae Johnson. These players are all expected to receive significant raises on their next contracts, which will put a strain on the Steelers’ cap.
Potential Cap Relief
The Steelers could create some cap relief by extending or restructuring the contracts of some of their current players. They could also release some veteran players who are no longer in the team’s long-term plans.
Free Agent Targets
The Steelers will likely need to add some free agents in 2025 to fill holes on their roster. They could target players at positions such as wide receiver, cornerback, and defensive line.
Salary Cap Projection
Based on the current information available, it is projected that the Steelers will have approximately $30 million in cap space available for the 2025 season.
Potential Roster Moves
The Steelers could make a number of roster moves in 2025 to clear cap space and improve their team. They could release some veteran players, restructure some contracts, or extend some contracts.
Outlook for the Future
The Steelers’ salary cap situation is expected to be tight in 2025, but they should have enough cap space to retain their key players and add some free agents. The team’s long-term outlook is bright, as they have a number of young players who are on the rise.
Breakdown of Projected 2025 Salary Cap Situation
| Projected Cap Space | $30 million |
| Key Players Expiring Contracts | |
| • Kenny Pickett (QB) | |
| • Najee Harris (RB) | |
| • Diontae Johnson (WR) | |
| Potential Cap Relief | |
| • Restructuring Contracts | |
| • Releasing Veteran Players | |
| Free Agent Targets | |
| • Wide Receiver | |
| • Cornerback | |
| • Defensive Line |
Breaking Down the Steelers’ Schedule by Quarter
9. Week 13-17: Finishing Strong or Fading Fast
The final stretch of the season holds immense importance for the Steelers. With four potential playoff opponents on their schedule, they need to perform well to secure a postseason berth.
The Steelers face the Colts, Panthers, Chiefs, and Browns in consecutive weeks. The Colts and Panthers are projected to be near the bottom of their respective divisions, providing Pittsburgh with a reasonable opportunity to pick up wins. However, the Chiefs present a formidable challenge as defending AFC champions and a perennial playoff contender. The Browns, too, have emerged as a division rival not to be overlooked.
This four-game stretch is crucial for the Steelers’ playoff hopes. If they can emerge with a 3-1 or even 2-2 record, they will be well-positioned for a playoff berth. However, a 1-3 or 0-4 record could spell doom for their postseason aspirations.
| Week | Opponent | Projected Record |
|---|---|---|
| 13 | Colts | 5-11 |
| 14 | Panthers | 6-10 |
| 15 | Chiefs | 9-7 |
| 16 | Browns | 8-8 |
| 17 | TBD | TBD |
Examining the Steelers’ Opponents’ Coaching Changes
Carolina Panthers
The Panthers have a new head coach in Frank Reich, who was previously the offensive coordinator for the Indianapolis Colts. Reich has a history of success, leading the Colts to the playoffs three times in four seasons as head coach. He is expected to bring a more aggressive offensive approach to Carolina, which could make them a more formidable opponent for the Steelers.
Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals are another team with a new head coach, as Zac Taylor was fired after the 2022 season. The Bengals have hired former Saints defensive coordinator Brian Flores, who is known for his aggressive defensive schemes. Flores could make the Bengals a tougher matchup for the Steelers, especially if he can improve their pass rush.
Cleveland Browns
The Browns have a new offensive coordinator in Jim Schwartz, who was previously the defensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles. Schwartz is known for his attacking defensive schemes, which could make the Browns a more formidable opponent for the Steelers. Schwartz will need to improve the Browns pass rush, which was one of the worst in the NFL last season.
Denver Broncos
The Broncos have a new head coach in Sean Payton, who was previously the head coach of the New Orleans Saints. Payton is a proven winner, leading the Saints to the playoffs nine times in 15 seasons as head coach. He is expected to bring a more consistent and disciplined approach to Denver, which could make them a tougher opponent for the Steelers.
Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders have a new general manager in Dave Ziegler, who was previously the personnel director for the New England Patriots. Ziegler is known for his strong eye for talent, and he is expected to make some significant changes to the Raiders roster. The Raiders also have Josh McDaniels back as their head coach, this time around he brought in a couple new offensive coaches, so the Raiders are expected to improve their offensive production.
New England Patriots
The Patriots have a new offensive coordinator in Bill O’Brien, who was previously the head coach of the Houston Texans. O’Brien is known for his innovative offensive schemes, which could make the Patriots a more formidable opponent for the Steelers. O’Brien will need to find a way to replace Mac Jones, who is expected to miss significant time due to injury.
New York Jets
The Jets have a new head coach in Nathaniel Hackett, who was previously the offensive coordinator for the Denver Broncos. Hackett is known for his innovative offensive schemes, which could make the Jets a more formidable opponent for the Steelers. Hackett will need to find a way to improve the Jets’ passing attack, which was one of the worst in the NFL last season.
Seattle Seahawks
The Seahawks have a new head coach in Shane Waldron, who was previously the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams. Waldron is known for his innovative offensive schemes, which could make the Seahawks a more formidable opponent for the Steelers. Waldron will need to find a way to replace Russell Wilson, who was traded to the Denver Broncos.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccaneers have a new offensive coordinator in Byron Leftwich, who was previously the quarterbacks coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Leftwich is known for his strong relationship with Tom Brady, and he is expected to bring a more consistent and disciplined approach to the Buccaneers’ offense. Leftwich will need to find a way to replace Rob Gronkowski, who retired after the 2022 season.
Tennessee Titans
The Titans have a new general manager in Ran Carthon, who was previously the director of player personnel for the San Francisco 49ers. Carthon is known for his strong eye for talent, and he is expected to make some significant changes to the Titans roster. The Titans also hired Tim Kelly as their offensive coordinator, he spent the last 3 seasons with the Houston Texans as their offensive coordinator. Kelly will need to find a way to improve the Titans passing attack, which has struggled mightily over the last few years.
Steelers’ Opponents for 2025
The Pittsburgh Steelers will face a challenging slate of opponents in 2025, as they look to rebound from a disappointing 2024 campaign. The Steelers will open the season at home against the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs, and will also face tough road tests against the Baltimore Ravens, Cleveland Browns, and Cincinnati Bengals. In addition, the Steelers will play host to the NFC East champion New York Giants, as well as the NFC West champion San Francisco 49ers.
The Steelers’ schedule is backloaded with difficult games, as they will play six of their final eight games on the road. This includes a three-game road trip to face the Browns, Bengals, and Ravens in Weeks 13-15. The Steelers will also close out the regular season with a road game against the Browns in Week 18.
Despite the challenging schedule, the Steelers are confident that they can compete for a playoff berth in 2025. The team has a number of talented players, including quarterback Kenny Pickett, running back Najee Harris, and wide receiver Diontae Johnson. The Steelers also have a strong defense, led by linebacker T.J. Watt and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
