The Pittsburgh Steelers approached the 2026 offseason with a clear goal: reinforce key areas of the roster while adding experienced talent capable of contributing immediately. Through a series of calculated moves, Pittsburgh addressed both sides of the ball, adding players who bring a mix of production, versatility, and depth. Among the most notable additions or returning contributors are Michael Pittman Jr., Rico Dowdle, Jamel Dean, Asante Samuel Jr., and Cole Holcomb.
One of the most significant offensive moves was the addition of wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. Known for his physical style and reliability as a possession receiver, Pittman brings a strong presence to Pittsburgh’s passing attack. His size and ability to win contested catches provide the Steelers with a dependable target in critical situations, particularly on third downs and in the red zone.
Pittman’s route running and toughness after the catch also align with the Steelers’ long-standing offensive identity built around physical football and ball control. In fact, it’s a strong indication that’s the identity they want to build, when paired with their other moves, including adding WR D.K. Metcalf via last year’s trade.
Pittman recorded 485 receptions for 5,254 yards and 25 touchdowns in 95 career games, including a 109-catch, 1,152-yard season in 2023.
The Steelers also added depth to their backfield with the signing of running back Rico Dowdle. Dowdle has shown flashes of explosiveness and versatility during his time in the league, particularly as a complementary runner capable of contributing in both rushing and passing situations. While he’s not expected to take over a starting role, his presence strengthens the running back rotation and provides insurance against injuries while giving the offense another capable option in short-yardage and rotational situations.
Dowdle has rushed for 2,540 yards and 10 touchdowns on 567 carries in his career, while adding 95 receptions for 690 yards and six scores, totaling 3,230 yards from scrimmage.
He is coming off back-to-back productive seasons, rushing for 1,079 yards with Dallas in 2024 (with new head coach Mike McCarthy) before totaling 1,076 rushing yards and 1,373 yards from scrimmage with Carolina in 2025.
Defensively, Pittsburgh made significant investments in the secondary by bringing in cornerbacks Jamel Dean and Asante Samuel Jr. Dean, known for his size and speed, adds a physical outside presence capable of matching up with bigger receivers. His ability to play tight coverage and contest throws downfield helps solidify the boundary positions in the Steelers’ defensive scheme.
Dean was one of the NFL’s most effective coverage corners in 2025, allowing just a 41.7% completion rate and 4.7 yards per target, both ranking first among defensive backs, while posting a 41.3 passer rating allowed, according to Next Gen Stats.
Jamel Dean was graded as the **third-best overall cornerback by Pro Football Focus** among 114 eligible players in 2025 and allowed a **league-best 47.7 passer rating when targeted**. That production complements Joey Porter Jr., who ranked **third in passer rating allowed**, according to PFF. Porter did not allow a touchdown all season while Dean surrendered just one, giving Pittsburgh a cornerback tandem capable of locking down both sides of the field.
Samuel brings a different but equally valuable skill set. The son of former NFL star Asante Samuel, Samuel Jr. has developed a reputation as a quick, instinctive corner with strong ball skills. His ability to read quarterbacks and jump passing lanes could make him a playmaker in Pittsburgh’s secondary, adding another dimension to the defense’s ability to generate turnovers.
After missing nearly a year with a back injury, Asante Samuel Jr. returned late in the season and appeared in six games for the Pittsburgh Steelers. With Jamel Dean now in the mix, Samuel projects as a key rotational and depth option in Pittsburgh’s secondary.
Another important piece of the defensive puzzle is the return of linebacker Cole Holcomb. When healthy, Holcomb has proven to be an active and reliable presence in the middle of the defense. His range, tackling ability, and leadership help stabilize the linebacker unit and provide the Steelers with a veteran presence capable of contributing in both run defense and coverage.
Holcomb was used mainly in a depth role last season as the Pittsburgh Steelers evaluated his return from a serious knee injury that sidelined him for the entire 2024 season. He previously served as the team’s defensive play-caller and starting inside linebacker in 2023.
Together, Asante Samuel Jr. and Cole Holcomb provide additional reinforcement for the Pittsburgh Steelers as the new coaching staff continues shaping the 2026 depth chart into a potential contender.