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3 Make-or-Break Steelers in Week 7 vs. Saints
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- 3 Make-or-Break Steelers in Week 7 vs. Saints
The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing for a pivotal Week 7 matchup against the New Orleans Saints in Paris , and several players will have important roles to play. As the Steelers look to build momentum under head coach Mike McCarthy , individual performances could determine whether they leave France with another win or suffer a setback. From protecting Aaron Rodgers to limiting New Orleans' offensive weapons, these three Steelers face opportunities to make a significant impact.
Each faces a different challenge, but all three could play a major role in determining the Steelers' success. Whether it's holding up against a dangerous pass rusher, delivering consistent coverage, or helping contain the Saints' passing attack, these players must rise to the occasion in Week 7.
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Troy Fautanu
Oct 11, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Troy Fautanu (76) in action against Indianapolis Colts linebacker CJ Allen (53) in the second half at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Fautanu and Max Iheanachor face difficult assignments against high-performing edge rushers in Week 7. Fautanu will likely match up against Saints star Chase Young on Sunday. Young has found a home in New Orleans, where he is putting together a resurgent season.
If Young gets the better of Fautanu, it could make for a long day for the Steelers' offense. Fautanu has allowed 17 pressures and two sacks this season as he continues to adjust to playing left tackle. Young, meanwhile, has recorded 25 pressures and eight sacks, making this a pivotal matchup on Sunday.
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Asante Samuel Jr.
Oct 11, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. (22) is congratulated by linebacker Patrick Queen (6) after breaking up a pass in the end zone in the third quarter against the Indianapolis Colts at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
Samuel hasn't played poorly, but he hasn't consistently matched the level he displayed during training camp. He has allowed three touchdowns in coverage this season. However, Samuel has also surrendered completions on just 56.3% of targets while recording five pass breakups .
Overall, Samuel has shown more positives than negatives. On Sunday, he and the Steelers' defense will face a Saints offense featuring several dangerous weapons. Can Samuel deliver a third consecutive standout performance and help limit New Orleans' passing attack?
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Payton Wilson
Oct 11, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Payton Wilson (41) breaks up a pass intended for Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs (2) in the fourth quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
Wilson has recorded 50 total tackles and 20 run stuffs this season . He's quietly putting together a promising campaign and beginning to hit his stride. His coverage metrics haven't been particularly strong, but the Steelers need to see continued progress and development from the young linebacker.
We're starting to see those improvements. Now, Wilson must take another step forward against a Saints offense with several talented pass catchers. He has plenty of potential, and when he plays his best football, he can elevate the entire defense. A strong performance in Paris would provide another encouraging sign of his development.
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This story was originally published by Athlon on Oct 24, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
