Everybody knows Mike McCarthy’s reputation is built on offense, which is why so much attention has centered on what he can do for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ attack in 2026. But even with the excitement surrounding his arrival, his track record may still be getting undersold. Few coaches can match the sustained offensive success McCarthy has produced over nearly two decades as a head coach.
In 18 seasons, McCarthy has produced a top-10 scoring offense 12 times. Of the six seasons that fell short of that mark, three were heavily impacted by injuries to his starting quarterback.
Put another way, when McCarthy has had a healthy signal-caller, elite offensive production has been more the rule than the exception.
Pittsburgh’s offense has earned its reputation. For much of the last decade, the Steelers have fielded units that struggled to keep pace with the NFL’s best. It almost feels dirty to suggest they could turn the corner and become a top offense. But that’s exactly what I’m predicting, and McCarthy is a major reason why.
He’s not the only reason, however.
Pittsburgh hasn’t had quarterback continuity since Ben Roethlisberger retired after the 2021 season. There has been a different Week 1 starter in each of the four seasons since. Now the Steelers have one of the best quarterbacks of all time putting that unfortunate streak to an end. Aaron Rodgers is back, and his chemistry with the offense sets the stage for a bigger and better second season.
Young players like Roman Wilson never stood a chance last season after getting a short time to acclimate to Rodgers and his expectations. Another year together should unlock Wilson for another addition to an already-improved WR room.
Next, let’s look at the Steelers’ core group of playmakers side by side.
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The difference between the two WR rooms is staggering. And I would argue the TE and RB rooms are both upgraded, one by subtracting Jonnu Smith and the other by adding Rico Dowdle.
If DK Metcalf happens to get into another scuffle with a certain blue-haired Detroit Lions fan, Pittsburgh’s offense won’t be hamstrung beyond repair as it was last season. The Steelers can absorb an injury or two and still have enough weapons to operate.
Perhaps most importantly, the offensive line has a chance to be among the league’s best. With respected OL coach James Campen leading the way, Troy Fautanu, Zach Frazier, and Mason McCormick all have a chance to be among the best at their respective positions in 2026. And it’s only a matter of time before Gennings Dunker and Max Iheanachor take over to shore up the right side of the line. Iheanachor may be ready sooner than most people imagined.
Expect Rodgers to have more time to let plays develop, which opens up the offense significantly compared to a year ago.
Put it all together and the ingredients are there for something Pittsburgh hasn’t produced in a very long time. McCarthy’s track record says top-10 offenses are the norm, not the exception. With Rodgers returning, an upgraded group of skill players, and an ascending offensive line, the Steelers finally have the pieces to follow that script in 2026.
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