As the Baltimore Ravens won their second straight AFC North title last season, the Pittsburgh Steelers did what has become a trend for them: underwhelm, but finish with a winning record. Finishing the year with a 10-7 record, Pittsburgh met Baltimore in the Wild Card round, and were sent packing in a 28-14 loss.
Since then, the Steelers have been aggressive in trying to build back to contender status. This started with Pittsburgh’s pursuit of Aaron Rodgers, and the franchise took things to another level on Monday, trading for All-Pro corner Jalen Ramsey, and Pro Bowl tight end Jonnu Smith. While the move did cost them Minkah Fitzpatrick and a late-round pick, the belief is that Pittsburgh is now ready to compete for the AFC North title.
With Rodgers, Ramsey, and Smith all joining an already talented Pittsburgh team, some fans and analysts will probably argue the Steelers are ready to dethrone Baltimore. However, the Ravens shouldn’t be that concerned.
The rebuilt Steelers shouldn’t strike any fear in the Ravens’ hearts
For starters, names on paper are nothing more than just that; an accumulation of elite talent doesn’t equal wins. Pittsburgh’s new quarterback certainly understands that after his two unsuccessful seasons with the New York Jets. So the Steelers having talented players won’t necessarily guarantee wins; the players will still have to put it all together on the field.
Beyond that, Baltimore is still the most talented team in the division, and possibly the league. As cliche as it may sound, the Ravens are their only real competition. If Baltimore plays up to it’s ability, it doesn’t matter who other teams in the division add. The Ravens are still far and away the most complete team in the division, and as long as they play like it consistently, they will repeat as AFC North champions.