3 bold predictions for the Steelers 2021 season

2. Steelers will not lead the league in sacks

The Black and Gold have traditionally had few problems getting after opposing quarterbacks. And defensive coordinator Keith Butler’s unit has really upped the ante in recent years.

Dating back to 2017, the Steelers have either led or tied for the league lead in sacks. There were 56 quarterback traps that year. A season later, Pittsburgh and Kansas City both came up with 52 sacks. In 2019, there were 54 QB traps and this past year, Steelers’ defenders wrapped up opposing passers 56 times.

Four-year pro T.J. Watt has been one of the top edge rushers since entering the league in ’17. The former University of Wisconsin standout has played in 62 regular-season contests and has totaled 49.5 sacks and 17 forced fumble. The three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro led the NFL in 2020 with 15 QB traps and was in the running for Defensive Player of the Year honors.

And it sounds like the four-year veteran is about to get some good news when it comes to his financial future (via Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette) so stay tuned. In any case, expect another big year from the Pittsburgh pass rush. But the club may not make five years in a row leading the NFL in sacks.