Insider’s predicted 2025 starting lineup is likely to disappoint Steelers fans.
Few have gained more credibility covering the Steelers than Mark Kaboly. Now with The Pat McAfee Show, he’s become one of Pittsburgh’s top insiders. Recently, he hosted a Q&A session on X, sharing insights that could have fans fuming about the team’s future.
While changes are expected this offseason, some fans are pushing for more than others. From behind closed doors, the Steelers believe they’re only a few pieces away from being competitive. But after years of repeating the same mistakes, many fans may struggle to buy into that idea. Kaboly, however, has a strong understanding of what’s going on within the organization.
Offensive outlook shows minimal change despite struggles
Projected starting offense: Justin Fields (QB), Jalyen Warren (RB), George Pickens (WR), Christian Kirk (WR), Calvin Austin III (WR), Pat Freiermuth (TE), Broderick Jones (LT), Isaac Seumalo (LG), Zach Frazier (OC), Mason McCormick (RG), Troy Fautanu (RT).
Kaboly, along with several other insiders, believes the Steelers will start Justin Fields at quarterback in 2025, which should be a huge boost for the fanbase. It’s looking unlikely that Russell Wilson will return to Pittsburgh, and even less likely that he remains the starter. But whether Fields will succeed behind a still-iffy offensive line is up in the air.
Kaboly is skeptical about the risk of starting two young tackles who haven’t yet proven themselves. Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu will need time to show if they’re the future, but the real concern lies in the interior. The offensive line will only be successful if its interior players stay healthy.
The receiving corps could also be in flux. While George Pickens is a name often mentioned in trade rumors, the addition of Christian Kirk is intriguing—especially given the Steelers’ past interest in him before the trade deadline. That said, bringing back a similar offense next season could be the very thing that sinks their chances.
Defense may see some shifts, but not much excitement
Projected starting defense: Cam Heyward (DT), D.J. Jones (DT), Keeanu Benton (NT), T.J. Watt (EDGE), Alex Highsmith (EDGE), Patrick Queen (LB), Payton Wilson (LB), Joey Porter Jr. (CB), Cory Trice (CB), Minkah Fitzpatrick (S), DeShon Elliott (S).
On the defensive side, the Steelers may make a few changes, but don’t expect a drastic overhaul. Mike Tomlin loves to build his defense, and while there’s still money to spend, fans may not see many moves that’ll have them buzzing.
Kaboly suggests Larry Ogunjobi could be a cap casualty, with D.J. Jones possibly filling his spot. However, that could be a questionable decision, as Jones is already past 30 and had a lackluster 2024 season with only one sack. Investing in Jones instead of finding younger talent would be a risky move.
Beyond that, the defense will likely remain largely the same. A rising name in Pittsburgh is Cory Trice, who impressed during the team’s late-season slide and could be in line for a starting job at cornerback. Overall, expect a defense that features some elite talent but still struggles with inconsistency—leading to more frustration than triumph.
