· 2026-07-15

The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking to make a deep playoff run in 2026, but former star Ryan Clark isn't convinced. Clark, now an ESPN analyst, believes the team's ceiling is what they've been seeing for the last few years – slightly above average.
Clark's prediction comes after the Steelers signed Aaron Rodgers to a one-year deal, hoping to prove they're still a Super Bowl contender. However, Clark thinks the team still has holes on offense and might struggle to compete with top teams in the league.
The Steelers will face the Atlanta Falcons in their next game on September 13, 2026. With a 10-7 record and a one-game winning streak, the team is looking to build momentum. Clark wouldn't be surprised to see the Steelers make the playoffs again, but he'd be even less surprised to see them lose in the first round.
In his first year with the Steelers, Rodgers threw for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns, and seven interceptions, leading the team to a 10-6 record. However, the team was promptly eliminated in the Wild Card Round. This has been Pittsburgh's fate in each of the last three seasons.
Clark believes Rodgers can get the Steelers to nine or ten wins, but thinks they'll be competitive and fight for a Wild Card spot. He also thinks the team will be home by the Divisional Round, wondering if they're stuck in quarterback purgatory.
The Steelers will face the Atlanta Falcons on September 13, 2026, in their next game. With a 10-7 record and a one-game winning streak, the team is looking to build momentum. Clark's prediction might not be the most optimistic, but it's a reality check for Steelers fans.
The Steelers have been eliminated in the Wild Card Round in each of the last three seasons. Clark's prediction might be a harsh reality, but it's a reminder that the team still has work to do to become a true Super Bowl contender.
The Steelers' season is off to a promising start, but Clark's prediction is a reminder that they still have a long way to go. With a talented quarterback like Rodgers leading the team, anything is possible. However, Clark's take on the team's ceiling is a reality check for Steelers fans.
As of July 15, 2026, the Steelers are standing 4th in the American Football Conference with a 10-7 record and a one-game winning streak.