Can these players do it again?

[Coach]

By all accounts Bell, and Gay had their best season. You could say Bryant transformed the offense as a rookie, and added a game breaking type of deep threat.

Will they be as good in 2015? I think Bryant might be even better, but I doubt Gay will perform as well. Bell's status right now to start the season is murky.

 

[USDA#1]

Bell's status right now to start the season is murky.

and dank.....

 

[steelhurt]

Gay is a backup and nothing more. If we have to rely on him as a starter in 2015 we're in trouble. I think Bryant only tipped the iceberg sort of speak. I think this kid could be special if he has the work ethic and dedication which he may have. He's got everything else. Bell I think will continue to be a very productive back but what worries me is how coach bonehead continues this run him to the wheels come off attitude. That's plain stupid and think that will only make him a used-up back before his time is up. I say draft a nice complimentary back that can relieve Bell every game. Someone that can get you the tough yards and can catch the ball. It all depends on how he continues to use him and time will tell.

 

[sullysezso71]

I agree, Steelers need to locate a good back to use in short yardage and also a threat coming ouy of the backfield, Bryant's potential looks unlimited at this point, I think William Gay performed well in his role and could definitely boost his confidence and make him want to work that much harder

 

[steelerscotty]

Bryant is brilliant, im happy with Gay and ive been ringing Bell's virtues since we drafted him!

 

[Stryker]

Gay had a very good year last year. He is the only true starter we have. Hell I'll be happy with 2 TDs from him next year. Thanks for 3 though Gay!

 

[stillwright]

Gay is a backup and nothing more. If we have to rely on him as a starter in 2015 we're in trouble. I think Bryant only tipped the iceberg sort of speak. I think this kid could be special if he has the work ethic and dedication which he may have. He's got everything else. Bell I think will continue to be a very productive back but what worries me is how coach bonehead continues this run him to the wheels come off attitude. That's plain stupid and think that will only make him a used-up back before his time is up. I say draft a nice complimentary back that can relieve Bell every game. Someone that can get you the tough yards and can catch the ball. It all depends on how he continues to use him and time will tell.

Us him up now...when his 2nd contract comes up RB's don't have the value they command....check out the McCoy thread.

 

[SteelerAl]

I think Gay will have another strong season. He's turned himself into Deshea Townsend...a smart, fundamentally sound CB who always seems to be in good position even though he doesn't have overwhelming size or speed. Will he score 3 TDs again? Highly doubtful because that sort of production is a statistical fluke. Kind of like when Jerricho Cotchery had 10 TDs in 2013. Even if he had re-signed with us last off-season, there would be no reason to expect that he would repeat that production.

The sky is the limit for Bell and Bryant if they are half as dedicated to their craft as Antonio Brown is.

 

[Coach]

Gay is a backup and nothing more. If we have to rely on him as a starter in 2015 we're in trouble. I think Bryant only tipped the iceberg sort of speak. I think this kid could be special if he has the work ethic and dedication which he may have. He's got everything else. Bell I think will continue to be a very productive back but what worries me is how coach bonehead continues this run him to the wheels come off attitude. That's plain stupid and think that will only make him a used-up back before his time is up. I say draft a nice complimentary back that can relieve Bell every game. Someone that can get you the tough yards and can catch the ball. It all depends on how he continues to use him and time will tell.

I think Gay is a solid #2 corner. Just don't put him on man with a fast player, and don't match him up with a much bigger receiver. Having said that we really did not face many top level passing teams last year. We faced quite a few bad QB's and rookies.

Next year we face Rivers, Luck, P. Manning Kapernick, Brady, and Wilson. I would place all six of these QB's in the top 12. Our pass defense will be tested.

 

[SteelerFan448]

Running backs go up and down, but I'd be satisfied with less production if they acquire a viable backup. We know what we will get from Gay and I don't expect much different, touchdowns aside. Bryant has a lot of room to grow and develop as a receiver and he is the biggest question mark in this group.

 

[steelhurt]

We better improve the CB and safety play that's for sure Coach. As you mention we face some top QB's and we better have a better defense on the field or its going to be a long season.

 

[Hines57]

Bryant is still a little on the raw side. If he mimic's what AB does, oh man we will have a baller. Wheaton improved as well but he wasn't always on the field. WR is definitely a strong point for the team.

Bell was outstanding last year. His patience in the running game and his ability to help on pass rush and pop out as the check down receiver sets him apart from all other RBs. He's on par with Faulk IMO as both a runner, blocker and receiver. Our OL and the health of the OL will be critical to Bell's performance. Having solid WRs will open up running lanes as well. Pick your poison against us, stop the run and Ben will find our receivers. Sit back and try to stop the pass and Bell will pile up yards.

On defense, the only spots I see improving are at LB (Shazier, Jones) and DE with Tuitt & Heyward. Our secondary is straight up garbage. Hope Mitchell's play last year was about him not being 100% (his words) and less his ability. We are going to figure all that out soon enough. Lots of holes to fill via FA and the draft.