Former Steelers OL, 2-Time Super Bowl Champion, Rips Into Offense, Calls Out Lack of Identity and Poor Line Play

The Pittsburgh Steelers may have pulled off a 21–14 victory over the New England Patriots, but not everyone was impressed — especially former offensive lineman Trai Essex. Taking to social media, Essex unleashed a scathing critique of the team’s offense, questioning both its creativity and execution.

“Since Ben, no matter how great a QB was prior to getting to Pitt, they all end up looking exactly the same,” Essex wrote. “Short pass, short pass, deep bomb down the sideline. Rarely attack the middle. Every defense gets excited when they play the Steelers. It’s easy.”

For Essex, the real issue goes beyond scheme. He believes the unit currently has “0 identity” and relies too much on reacting to defenses rather than dictating play. “We have not identified what we do well. 0 identity,” he continued. “We adjust to the defense. They are supposed to adjust to us. It starts up front, but in general, we play a scary brand of offense that doesn’t dictate anything. We react.”

The offensive line was also in his crosshairs. Essex didn’t mince words about their struggles through three weeks, pointing to poor fundamentals and questionable stances at the line of scrimmage. “I fire up the All-22 to begin breaking down film this morning. Had to stop and wooosahhh for a minute after getting to the 1st offensive play,” he wrote. “1st down, QB under center… why in the hell is everyone but Zach & Mason in a 2-point stance on a weak zone run? Off jump you are giving the defenders leverage. Had we not gotten the penalty, we would have started the game off with a negative play. Basics.”

Despite the Steelers securing a win, Essex’s comments echo a growing concern among fans and analysts that Pittsburgh’s offense is far too predictable, with issues along the line making matters worse. His raw critique — delivered as someone who once wore the Black & Gold — adds fuel to the debate on whether the Steelers can truly contend without reestablishing a strong offensive identity.