The Pittsburgh Steelers may have one of the easiest 2026 matchups in their regular season opener against the Atlanta Falcons. But that's exactly why it feels like a classic Pittsburgh trap game.
From an ugly offensive tackle situation to one elite cornerback's potential absence, here are three reasons for concern in the Steelers' Week 1 game against the Falcons.
Offensive tackle uncertainty
Yikes. The offensive tackle situation was terrible throughout training camp and the preseason. It's so bad that Pittsburgh has yet to name a starter at right tackle, yet didn't hesitate to trade Broderick Jones to the Dallas Cowboys for a third-round pick. Dylan Cook and Troy Fautanu haven't handled switching tackle spots as well as many hoped, and the Steelers' success in the regular
season opener may be measured by the two offensive tackles' level of play.
Safeties are untested
Jaquan Brisker was signed in free agency, but DeShon Elliott was placed on injured reserve. Yes, Rayshawn Jenkins was promising during the preseason, but he'd undoubtedly be the backup if Elliott was healthy. Here's to hoping Brisker and Jenkins can bring the heat on Sunday.
Will Joey Porter Jr. play?
Porter is the best member of Pittsburgh's secondary and arguably one of the best cornerbacks in the league. But questions remain as to whether he'll suit up in Week 1 due to his back injury and potential contract holdout.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Reasons for concern in Steelers’ Week 1 matchup vs. Falcons
