Steelers Projected to Finish Middle of the Pack in NFL Sacks

From 2017 to 2021, the Pittsburgh Steelers led the NFL in sacks for five consecutive seasons, and they were the only team in the NFL to record over 50 sacks in each of those campaigns. Sack prowess is a long part of the history for the Steelers, but they’ve taken it to a new level since drafting outside linebacker T.J. Watt out of Wisconsin in 2017.

Watt, who tied the NFL single-season sack record in 2021, once again led the league with 19 sacks in 2023, but his team fell short of the dominance around him that he has been accustomed to. The Steelers totaled 47 sacks last season, tied for 11th in the NFL.

Despite Watt’s prowess, along with talents like Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, Cam Heyward, the addition of linebacker Patrick Queen, and a revamped secondary, the betting markets are not predicting a rebound for the Pittsburgh sack crew. The Steelers are projected to finish 14th in sacks with an over/under of 46.5 in 2024 according to odds posted this month at BetOnline.org.

In 2023, the Steelers finished 11th in the league with 47 sacks, while the Baltimore Ravens led with 60. A key player in Baltimore’s success, Patrick Queen, made the rare move from Baltimore to Pittsburgh this offseason. Last season with the Ravens, Queen recorded 3.5 sacks, bringing his career total to 13.5 since 2020. Since the last time the Steelers led the league in 2021, they struggled to find a reliable anchor in the middle of their defense to quarterback and carry the group.

STEELERS TEAM SACKS AND NFL RANK

An effective secondary is crucial for strengthening a pass rush, and the Steelers have bolstered theirs by adding proven veterans to complement perennial All-Pro Minkah Fitzpatrick and second-year cornerback Joey Porter Jr. The acquisition of cornerback Donte Jackson, safety DeShon Elliott, and the return of Cam Sutton will greatly help Minkah to return to playing “Minkah ball.” Fitzpatrick’s ability to anticipate throws, create interceptions, and break up passes, combined with his strong support in run defense, will facilitate more opportunities for the front seven to secure sacks.

With Watt leading the charge, the Steelers always have a shot at topping the NFL in sacks. The addition of Queen and an improved secondary could help them surpass the projected 46.5 sacks in 2024 and potentially reclaim their status as the league leaders in sacks, leaving opposing quarterbacks wary of facing the Black and Gold on Sundays.