In the midst of the NFL's exhibition season, the Pittsburgh Steelers have encountered a harsh reality - they are being surpassed by three resurgent franchises. The Houston Texans, Buffalo Bills, and Detroit Lions, all former underdogs, have emerged as Super Bowl contenders, while the Steelers are noticeably absent from the conversation. Despite recent playoff wins on their resume, the Steelers find themselves outside the top 15 Super Bowl contenders, a humbling position for a team with a storied history.

The Steelers' playoff drought stretches back seven seasons, a considerable span in the world of professional football. Even legendary careers have been established in less time. Meanwhile, the team's search for a successor to quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has been unsuccessful so far, striking out on prospects like Kenny Pickett, Mitch Trubisky, and Mason Rudolph. In contrast, the Texans, Bills, and Lions have successfully addressed their respective quarterback situations through strategic maneuvers.

Houston, after hitting rock bottom in the league, managed to secure C.J. Stroud. Buffalo, too, went through a tough phase before landing Josh Allen, who has proven his worth. The Lions made a bold trade to acquire Jared Goff, who has exceeded expectations with an impressive touchdown-to-interception ratio since joining the team three years ago.

The Steelers' playoff appearances over the past six years have been met with disappointing defeats, showcasing a glaring defensive vulnerability. Their five-game playoff losing streak has seen them concede an astonishing average of 40.5 points. Consequently, the team's reputation has dwindled, rendering them perpetual underdogs in the eyes of many.

What remains unclear is why expectations for the Steelers have diminished to the point where they are no longer considered a force to be reckoned with. This raises concerns about the state of the franchise and where it stands in relation to its competitors. On the other hand, the Detroit Lions have emerged as a rising young team, boasting talented players across the field, including a quarterback who threw for 30 touchdowns last season, promising offensive weapons, and a formidable defensive line.

The Steelers appear to be in a state of stagnation, unable to move forward or retreat. However, the team's recent efforts to infuse young talent into the roster provide a glimmer of hope. With additions such as Keeanu Benton, Joey Porter Jr., George Pickens, and consistent investment in offensive tackles, there is potential for the team to regain its winning momentum. It's commendable that head coach Mike Tomlin and general manager Omar Khan are taking bold risks in team-building, even if the results may not be instantaneous.

For the time being, the expectations surrounding the Steelers remain modest, with approximately nine wins projected for the upcoming season. However, with each passing season, the hope remains that Pittsburgh will once again be considered a powerhouse in the league.