Are the Pittsburgh Steelers being seriously underrated heading into the 2026 NFL season?

On this episode of The Black & Gold Daily Blitz, Jeff “Tito” Thitoff reacts to ESPN ranking the Steelers’ projected starting lineup just 19th in the NFL—behind both the Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals in the AFC North.

Tito also breaks down Pittsburgh’s biggest training camp decision: Will Howard vs. Mason Rudolph for the backup quarterback job behind Aaron Rodgers. Should the Steelers prioritize Rudolph’s experience, or bet on Howard’s upside and championship pedigree?

Plus, John Gruden delivers major praise for both Will Howard and new Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy, comparing Howard’s toughness and leadership to Super Bowl-winning quarterback Brad Johnson.

Also discussed:

🏈 The Steelers’ most valuable young trade assets

🏈 Why T.J. Watt and DK Metcalf missed ESPN’s first-round value tier

🏈 Pittsburgh’s loaded group of young offensive linemen and defenders

🏈 Whether Aaron Rodgers and Mike McCarthy can recreate their Green Bay success

🏈 Why cutting Will Howard could become a major Steelers mistake

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