Bradshaw questions Steelers' contention status in pointed critique

Terry Bradshaw, the Hall of Fame quarterback and longtime Steelers critic, told USA Today that Pittsburgh’s current roster doesn’t measure up to what is required to be a championship contender. Bradshaw said, "they don’t have the team" and added, "They’re not a contender. They’re just not. From what I’ve seen, they’re not a contender. And they haven’t been in a while. They haven’t been a contender in five years." The remarks come as Pittsburgh began this season with a 2-1 record, including victories over the Jets and Patriots, but Bradshaw indicated that a winning formula requires equal contributions from offense, defense and coaching across the board.

The Steelers have remained competitive enough to reach the postseason in recent years, but the franchise has not won a playoff game since 2017. That year included wins over the Dolphins and Chiefs before Pittsburgh fell to the Patriots in the AFC Championship game. Bradshaw’s blunt assessment underscores a broader debate among fans and former players about whether Pittsburgh’s roster and support staff can sustain a sustained title run in the current NFL landscape.

Bradshaw wasn’t the only former Steelers great to weigh in with skepticism. Ben Roethlisberger spoke on the Footbahlin’ podcast and suggested that a loss could come for Pittsburgh when they travel to Ireland to face the Vikings. "If I say that I think we’re gonna get outcoached, is that controversial? I’ll say this: I think Brian Flores is a very good defensive coordinator. I think coach Kevin O’Connell is an exceptional offensive mind," Roethlisberger said. "They’re going to find ways to try and exploit our defense."

The exchange reflects a broader conversation about the Steelers’ rebuild and the expectations tied to a franchise known for its championship pedigree. While the team has shown resilience and a competitive start to the season, critics point to gaps that must be closed on both sides of the ball, as well as in game management and development under coach Mike Tomlin. Whether Pittsburgh can translate early-season momentum into a sustained run remains a central storyline for fans and analysts alike.

As the Steelers navigate a schedule that includes high-profile matchups, Bradshaw’s and Roethlisberger’s comments will likely be cited in debates about the franchise’s trajectory. The conversation also raises questions about how teams balance legacy expectations with the realities of roster construction and strategic execution in a modern NFL era that prizes depth, versatility and adaptability across both offense and defense.