The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2026 schedule has officially dropped, and you know what that means—it's time for our annual game-by-game predictions. While we fully admit this is far from a scientific exercise (especially with roster moves still unfolding between now and September), it's a fun way to set a baseline for the season ahead. For these picks, we're assuming Aaron Rodgers signs with the black and gold.
FanDuel has set the Steelers' over/under at 7.5 wins. Can Pittsburgh clear that bar in 2026? Let's break it down, week by week.
Week 1: vs. Atlanta Falcons
History is on Pittsburgh's side here—the Steelers have won the last five meetings, and the Falcons have never won in Pittsburgh. Atlanta remains in quarterback limbo, while the Steelers should be fired up for a rare home opener under their new head coach. Expect a strong start.
Week 2: at New England Patriots
Last season, the Steelers needed five defensive turnovers to beat New England by just one touchdown. The Patriots only got better throughout 2025, eventually making a Super Bowl run—and they may have added A.J. Brown by now. This one's a tough road test.
Week 3: vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Early in the season, the usually banged-up Bengals should still be dangerous, especially with elite nose tackle Dexter Lawrence joining their defense. Still, Cincinnati has plenty of holes, and the Steelers get this one at home. Advantage: Pittsburgh.
Week 4: at Cleveland Browns (Thursday Night Football)
Times may change under Mike McCarthy, but many are already penciling this in as a loss. The Steelers have struggled to win in Cleveland recently, and the Thursday night setting only increases the "slop factor." A tough divisional road game.
Week 5: vs. Indianapolis Colts
We're not betting on the Colts—even with a healthy Daniel Jones—to repeat their surprising first-half success from 2025. Michael Pittman Jr. gets a petty game ball against his former team in a win for Pittsburgh.
Week 6: at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccaneers remain dangerous, but their wheels fell off in 2025, highlighted by a disappointing season from Baker Mayfield. We don't have much faith in Todd Bowles to steady the pirate ship this year. Steelers take this one on the road.
Week 7: vs. New Orleans Saints (International Game)
It's an international matchup, which means Thursday Night Football levels of unpredictability. The Saints could catch the Steelers off guard, but Pittsburgh's talent should prevail in this neutral-site contest.