The Steelers also re-signed running back Jerome Bettis to a long-term deal, keeping their solid running game intact. Bettis finished seventh in the AFC in rushing with 1,341 yards last season. He has also rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of his five seasons in Pittsburgh.

The Steelers will again be counting on Kordell Stewart to handle the quarterbacking duties, although the offense will be altered to take better advantage of his abilities. Stewart had a decent year last year, going 7-4 as a starter, and the Steelers brought in quarterbacks coach Tom Clements to work with Kordell and help him use last season as a stepping stone.

Other new faces on offense include lineman Jeff Hartings and running back Ron Rivers. Pittsburgh also signed XFL MVP quarterback Tommy Maddux to compete with Kent Graham and Tee Martin for a backup slot. Center Dermontti Dawson, the offenses captain, was released due to injury and salary cap considerations.

The defense also lost their captain when Levon Kirkland was cut in another cap move, but the Steelers feel Mike Jones, who was picked up as a free agent from the Rams, or second-round pick Kendrell Bell will be able to fill the position effectively.

Defensive end Kevin Henry was also released, but the Steelers drafted defensive tackle Casey Hampton from Texas, and his presence will allow nose tackle Kimo von Oelhoffen to move to defensive end.

Overview

So much of the Steelers' success will depend on how well Kordell Stewart performs. Keeping Bettis around will help take some of the pressure off Stewart, but a big-play receiver could make a huge difference in this offense. Plaxico Buress needs to step up this year and become the weapon the Steelers envisioned when they drafted him.

The defense needs someone to step up and fill the leadership role that Kirkland held, along with his position. So far, coaches have been thrilled with the play and work ethic of the rookie linebacker Bell, and he may end up with the starting job. Overall the Steelers' defense should be very solid, and if the offense can find a way to put points on the board, they could be the early surprise in the NFL.