Carson Bruener: A Special Teams Star in the Making
The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2026 season outlook is bright, especially for special teams standout Carson Bruener. With a solid foundation in place, Bruener is poised to make an impact once again, leveraging his exceptional skills and dedication to the game.
The Special Teams Ace
Bruener's special teams prowess is undeniable. Last season, he earned a spot on the All-Rookie Team selected by the Pro Football Writers Association, showcasing his ability to make a difference in all aspects of special teams play. His 303 special teams snaps ranked third most on the roster, behind Jack Sawyer and Peyton Wilson, solidifying his importance to the team's success.
Pro Football Focus analytics further validated Bruener's talent, ranking him and Chicago safety Elijah Hicks as the league's top special teamers among players with at least 250 snaps. Their 91.5 rating on PFF's 100-point scale is a testament to their exceptional performance.
A College Career to Remember
Bruener's college career at Washington was equally impressive. As a senior captain, he made 103 tackles and three interceptions, earning third-team All-Big Ten honors in 2024. His 305 career tackles over five seasons demonstrate his consistency and leadership on the field.
The Path to Playing Time
Despite his special teams success, Bruener's path to playing time on defense is challenging. The Steelers' depth chart at inside linebacker is stacked with starters Wilson and Patrick Queen, along with backups Malik Harrison and Cole Holcomb. Harrison and Holcomb each played more snaps than Bruener last season, making it difficult for him to crack the starting lineup.
The Future is Bright
However, Bruener's future with the Steelers looks promising. With a clear focus on special teams, he is likely to remain a core player under new coordinator Danny Crossman. His special teams expertise and dedication to the game make him a valuable asset to the team's success.
In conclusion, Carson Bruener is a special teams star in the making. His exceptional skills and dedication to the game make him a valuable asset to the Pittsburgh Steelers. With a solid foundation in place, Bruener is poised to make an impact once again, leveraging his exceptional skills and dedication to the game.
