Steelers Rank Last in the 2026 NFLPA Survey
For the first time in the four-year history of the NFL Players Association survey, the Pittsburgh Steelers ranked last in the NFL. The franchise was ranked 28th last year. It was the Miami Dolphins who ranked first in 2026. According to ESPN, 1,759 players participated in the survey between November 2nd and December 11th of 2025.
The survey grades teams from A-plus to F-minus in multiple areas. The Steelers received low grades across various categories. The franchise was graded an F in the Treatment of Families and Team Travel category. Pittsburgh received an F-minus grade in the Home Game Field and Locker Room categories.
The survey results stated, “Steelers owner Art Rooney ranks last in the league for willingness to invest in facilities, a trend reflected in the Steelers’ poor facility ratings across the board.” ESPN’s Kalyn Kahler explained one reason for the failing locker room grade: “Players reported that it has only five bathroom stalls for the entire team.” Survey participants also disclosed that the Steelers’ training room doesn’t have updated recovery technology. Players noted that other NFL teams have already modernized their training complexes.
Kahler reported, “The Steelers had the lowest-rated home field in the league by a wide margin.” The survey results explained, “Players cite inadequate maintenance and excessive wear from hosting local college and high school games. Players across the league note the poor condition of the field and emphasize the need for investment to bring it up to standard.” The Steelers share Acrisure Stadium with the Pittsburgh Panthers. Additionally, the WPIAL football championships are hosted there.
Going forward, Rooney needs to invest in improving and modernizing Pittsburgh’s facilities, including the locker rooms, the stadium, and the training complex. Rooney and his staff should strongly consider no longer hosting college and high school games at Acrisure Stadium to reduce the wear and tear on the field. The organization needs to make the upkeep of the field a priority. Making these changes will help the Steelers retain their current players and attract new talent. It will also help improve team morale.
The franchise also needs to improve the experience for players’ families. Suggestions to accomplish this include having designated areas for the families to meet up that are private and comfortable, and assisting families with securing hotel accommodations when they’re traveling. Hosting family-oriented events throughout the year is another way to accomplish this goal. Hiring a family services and football engagement coordinator to be the contact person for the families of players and address their needs is an excellent way to improve their experience. Taking care of the players’ families will help increase player satisfaction.
The Steelers received an A grade for Head Coach and an A-minus grade for Special Teams Coordinator. The team’s training staff was ranked first in the league. However, their strength and conditioning staff ranked last. The issue with Pittsburgh’s strength and conditioning staff is already being addressed. Since becoming the head coach in January, Mike McCarthy hired a new strength and conditioning staff.
