After finishing the previous three seasons a combined 22–26, the Steelers returned to the top seed in the AFC, rolling to a 13–3 record in their first playoff berth and AFC Central title since 1997 and playing at Heinz Field.
However, for the third time in Bill Cowher's coaching tenure, the Steelers fell in the AFC Championship Game at home.
This time, the eventual Super Bowl champion New England Patriots upset the top-seeded Steelers.
Notable additions include Casey Hampton, Jeff Hartings and Kendrell Bell.
Running backs (RB) Wide receivers (WR) Tight ends (TE) Defensive linemen (DL) Defensive backs (DB) Special teams [2] [3] [4] Reserve at Alltel Stadium, Jacksonville, Florida Due to the September 11th attacks the National Football League postponed all games.