Prepare to be surprised—James Harrison has issued a bold warning to Steelers fans about what the future may hold for their beloved team. The core message? The Steelers might need to face some tough truths if they want to return to greatness. And here’s where it gets controversial: Harrison suggests that embracing a rebuild, including some down years, could actually be the key to a triumphant comeback.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have always set their sights on winning championships. Yet, the reality is that it’s been a long time since their last Super Bowl victory—more than a decade for sure—and since 2016, they haven't even managed to win a playoff game. If they don’t beat the Baltimore Ravens this Sunday night, their playoff hopes could be extinguished altogether. Harrison’s view? It might be time for the team to accept a rebuilding phase.
On his Deebo and Joe podcast, Harrison expressed that with the current state of their defense and lacking a seasoned quarterback, they risk sinking to the bottom of the league standings. He believes that what the Steelers need now is a period of strategic patience—taking a few step back before moving forward. He likened the potential rebuild to what the New England Patriots executed over recent years.
The Patriots, once nearly unstoppable in the 2000s and 2010s, experienced a brutal teardown after Tom Brady departed post-2019. They hit rock bottom in 2023 under Bill Belichick, finishing with a 4-13 record, sparking a complete reset. Fast forward to 2024, and New England is rejuvenated—now boasting a 13-3 record and a promising young quarterback in Drake Maye. Could the Steelers replicate this turnaround?
While it’s tempting to think so, it’s highly unlikely they would intentionally tank or deliberately aim for a poor season. The Steelers have built their identity on consistent competitiveness, never having finished with a losing record since 2003. Their priority has always been to aim for Super Bowl glory, not rebuilding for a chance at a high draft pick. Furthermore, ownership’s patience is notable—Mike Tomlin has only been let go if he decides to leave, which is very unlikely. The idea that tanking could immediately fix their issues is a bit of a misconception. Success in the NFL isn’t just about draft positioning; many teams with high draft picks still struggle to find a true franchise quarterback.
There are alternative strategies for acquiring a franchise-caliber quarterback besides tanking. The Steelers could consider trading up in the draft if they decide to go that route. With significant assets heading into the 2026 NFL Draft, they have options. But here’s the thing: Tanking isn’t something that can be turned on overnight; it’s a complex, long-term gamble. If the Steelers slip into a slump, it’s uncertain when or if they’ll reclaim their status as contenders. For many fans, the more immediate wish might simply be to see their team make the playoffs again—and that’s a goal worth fighting for.
