The Pittsburgh Steelers looked like there were on track to easily win the AFC North. However, DK Metcalf’s suspension has made that less of a guarantee. The Steelers can still lock up their division before playing another game if the Baltimore Ravens don’t beat the Green Bay Packers this week. That’s not a sure bet either, though. Therefore, the Steelers might have a lot to play for against the Cleveland Browns in Week 17. Former NFL offensive lineman Kyle Long isn’t worried about Pittsburgh losing their grip on the division.
“I think that even without their star wide receiver, this Steelers team can go handle business,” Long said recently on CBS Sports HQ. “I know the Browns have a really good front… I’m just saying I think this Steelers team, with or without their number one wide receiver, can survive.
“I think that’s the way that they’re coached, that’s the way that they’re built on both sides of the football. They play a tough brand of football. And everything you appreciate about the Cleveland Browns, the Steelers do the same kind of thing. They’re just a better team.”
The Browns are far from a juggernaut. They’re 3-12 with eyes set on the 2026 NFL Draft. The Steelers could find themselves facing a far more formidable opponent.
However, the Browns shouldn’t be underestimated, especially because this game will be played in Cleveland. The Steelers have struggled there in recent years. In fact, they haven’t won in Cleveland since 2021, when Ben Roethlisberger was their starter.
While the Steelers easily handled the Browns earlier this year, Cleveland’s team is a little different now. Shedeur Sanders is starting at quarterback. He hasn’t been amazing, but the Browns have put up a fight against some decent teams with him under center, including giving the Buffalo Bills a scare last week.
The Steelers have been playing some of their best football in recent weeks, and they might have to keep that up this week. That all hinges on the results of the Ravens’ game. Maybe the Steelers will get a nice gift for the holidays and secure a postseason spot before playing in Week 17. With Metcalf out and the team dealing with several other injuries, losing that pressure would be great.
