The Blast Furnace: An Alternate Pittsburgh Steelers/NFL History (1992 - ???) M25

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Description: A Pittsburgh Steelers-centric 1990s and beyond CFM Dynasty. I will be running this along side my modern Steelers CFM (Will resume after the playoffs). This Dynasty will start at the beginning of the 1992 season. Though the dynasty will be Steelers centric my plan is to make sure the league as a whole is covered. How will history play out this go round? Will Cowher lead his home town team to one for the thumb? Will a Cowboy Dynasty exist? Who wins out between Young and Montana in San Fran? Does Marino and Elway get over the hump and win a ring? Do the Bills continue to dominate the AFC? Do HOF players live up to that real life counterparts? Do unforeseen heroes rise up and etch their names in NFL lore?

Game: Madden 25
Slider: SGN Auto-sub/Slider Set up or Custom Sliders developed for roster
Draft Classes: Custom made classes for subsequent season
XP Sliders: SGN/Custom XP Sliders

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Season Recaps

1992: TBD

Pro Bowlers

1992: TBD

AP All-Pros/Season Award Winners

1992: TBD

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Team Draft Recaps

1993: TBD

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"1992 NFL Preview: The League Transformed"

The 1992 NFL season is set to be nothing short of revolutionary. As the league enters this pivotal year, change is sweeping through every facet of the game. From new cities and coaches to rule changes and a revamped playoff structure, the NFL is embracing a new era. Buckle up—this is going to be a season like no other.

Expansion and Realignment: The NFL Grows to 32 Teams
For the first time in over two decades, the NFL is expanding. Four new cities will now have teams: Jacksonville, Charlotte, Baltimore, and Memphis. These cities—long clamoring for professional football—will now get their chance to compete at the highest level. With the addition of these cities, the league will also undergo a massive realignment. The NFL will now feature four divisions in each conference, with 16 teams per conference, ensuring that every corner of the country is represented.

For fans, this means new rivalries, fresh matchups, and a chance to see how these new cities fare against the established powers. Jacksonville and Memphis, in particular, has fans buzzing as they hope to make an immediate impact in a division that features 2 expansion teams, while Baltimore will battle to bring their storied football traditions back to the forefront. Meanwhile, In Charlotte the Panthers will face the challenge of carving out their own identity in the competitive NFC.

With 32 teams now in the mix, the playoff race will be more heated than ever. And speaking of the playoffs...

Playoff Format Shakeup: More Teams, More Drama

In a move that has shocked many, the NFL is tweaking its playoff format just two years after the introduction of the 6-team system in 1990. This year, the league will expand the postseason field to 7 teams per conference—a significant change that will create more opportunities for teams to earn a playoff berth. The top seed in each conference will now receive a first-round bye, while the remaining six teams will battle it out in the wild card round.

This move is aimed at keeping more fanbases engaged longer into the season, particularly in a year where a new 17-game regular season will test the endurance of teams. The added wild card team will also create more chaos and drama, as now even teams with a slightly subpar record could make a surprise run at the title. With playoff berths at stake, expect teams to play every game like it’s a must-win—and for the action to be as high-stakes as it gets.

A New Era of Coaches: Rookies and Veterans Alike

Along with the league's expansion, we're seeing a wave of change at the coaching level. Five rookie head coaches will take the reins for established franchises in 1992, hoping to leave their mark on the league: Pittsburgh Steelers, Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers, San Diego Chargers, and Cincinnati Bengals. Each one of these teams has its own unique challenges, and how these young coaches respond to the pressure could define their careers.

In Pittsburgh, the legendary Chuck Noll has stepped down after a storied tenure, and the Steelers are now under the guidance of a fresh face who will need to quickly adapt to a league that’s evolving before his eyes. Meanwhile, in Green Bay, the Packers are looking for a new leader after a disappointing stretch in the early 1990s. The Vikings are hoping their new coach can get the team back into championship contention after a series of underachieving seasons. The Bengals and Chargers, both in rebuilding phases, will also look to their rookies to inject new life into their squads and return to respectability.

Alongside these young faces, there are a handful of established coaches on the hot seat or walking different sidelines. The pressure will be on veterans to show they can navigate a league that’s in the midst of a major overhaul.

Rule Changes: More Scoring, More Excitement

The NFL is all about evolution, and in 1992, that means a focus on more scoring and faster-paced play. A significant new rule will see the introduction of the two-point conversion, giving teams the option to go for two points after a touchdown rather than the traditional extra point. This change will undoubtedly alter the strategic landscape, as coaches will have to decide when to take the risk for a two-point conversion—could it decide the outcome of a game late in the fourth quarter?

In addition to the two-point conversion, the league is introducing other rules aimed at benefiting the offense. Pass interference calls are being stricter, and defensive backs will have more limitations when it comes to physically challenging wide receivers downfield. These changes are designed to open up the game, promote scoring, and give offenses more freedom to operate in what will likely be a wide-open race for the MVP.

Technological Innovations: Instant Replay and the QB Helmet

After much discussion this off-season, the NFL will officially keep instant replay in 1992 and beyond. This long-awaited move will continue allow referees to review plays, particularly those involving scoring plays or key turnovers. Fans can expect fewer blown calls and more accurate decisions from officials, making the game fairer for everyone involved. The addition of replay will likely have a profound effect on close games and could make a huge difference in the postseason.

Along with instant replay, quarterbacks will now have helmets equipped with a receiver to hear calls directly from the coach on the sideline. This new technology will eliminate some of the confusion and delay that comes with traditional hand signals or sideline conversations. For teams, this could lead to faster decision-making and fewer wasted seconds as they move from play to play.

The 1992 NFL Season: A New Frontier

As we head into the 1992 NFL season, it’s clear that we are witnessing the dawn of a new era. The league is expanding, and with it comes new opportunities and challenges. The new rules, playoff format, and technological advancements will make the game more exciting than ever. Whether you're a fan of the old guard or excited about the fresh faces in the league, there’s something for everyone in what promises to be a groundbreaking season.

The question is: Who will rise to the occasion in this new NFL? Will the expansion cities shock the world? Can the veteran coaches adapt to a fast-changing game? And which stars will shine in a season that’s primed for scoring explosions?

One thing is certain: The NFL’s 1992 season is ready to set the stage for a thrilling new chapter in the sport’s history. Let the games begin.

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1992 Pittsburgh Steelers Season Preview: A New Era Under Bill Cowher

As the Pittsburgh Steelers celebrate their 60th anniversary in 1992, the franchise enters a season of transition, marked by a changing of the guard. After 23 years and four Super Bowl championships under Chuck Noll, the Steelers are ushering in a new era with Bill Cowher as head coach. Cowher, a former linebacker and defensive coordinator of the Kansas City Chiefs, takes over a team coming off a disappointing 7-9 record in 1991. The pressure is on for Cowher to restore the Steelers' pride and push them back into playoff contention in the newly formed AFC North. Steeler fans of young and old are starving to see the success of the 1970s again.

The Offseason: Changes and New Additions

The 1991 season was a difficult one for Pittsburgh. Despite strong individual performances, they struggled with consistency and failed to make the playoffs. The offseason brought significant changes to both the roster and coaching staff, as the Steelers began the process of rebuilding under their new leader.

The most significant departure came in the form of Chuck Noll, who retired after an illustrious 23-year tenure as the Steelers' head coach. Under Noll, the team became one of the NFL’s most successful franchises, but it was clear that a new voice was needed to take the team into the next decade. Bill Cowher, known for his fiery demeanor and defensive acumen, was hired to fill the void.

On the roster, the Steelers saw several players lost to Plan B free agency. Defensive end Keith Willis, wide receiver Chris Calloway, linebacker Jeff Brady, tight end Keith Cash, defensive back Delton Hall, punter Dan Stryzinski, and linebacker Rob McGovern all moved on to other teams. While these departures leave gaps in the roster, the Steelers also made key additions through both Plan B free agency and the draft.

The Louis Lipps Departure: A Contract Dispute Rocks Training Camp

One of the most unexpected and controversial moves of the offseason came when the Steelers made the difficult decision to cut wide receiver Louis Lipps after a prolonged contract dispute. Lipps, a key figure in Pittsburgh’s offense for nearly a decade, had been locked in tense negotiations with the team throughout the summer.

Lipps, drafted in the first round of the 1984 NFL Draft, had been one of the Steelers' most consistent playmakers, with over 6,000 career receiving yards and two pro bowls. However, after leading the team in catches and yards in 1991, Lipps sought a contract extension that reflected his value. The dispute dragged into training camp, and despite his on-field success, the Steelers and Lipps could not come to terms.

The rift became increasingly public as the start of the season approached, and it ultimately led to the Steelers parting ways with Lipps, cutting him just before the season opener. While the move shocked fans and left a major void in the receiving corps, it also marked a significant shift in the team’s approach under Cowher. The Steelers made it clear they were prioritizing team dynamics and future-building over retaining aging stars involved in protracted contract disputes.

Lipps would go on to sign with the New Orleans Saints, but his departure left the Steelers with questions at wide receiver. Young receivers like Yancey Thigpen, Ernie Mills, and Charles Davenport (the team’s fourth-round pick in 1992) would now be called upon to fill the void. Cowher’s decision, while tough, reinforced his commitment to creating a unified, disciplined locker room and a roster that would focus on the team first.

Plan B Additions: Duval Love and Mark Royals

The Steelers’ most important Plan B acquisitions were offensive guard Duval Love and punter Mark Royals.

Duval Love, a starting right guard for the LA Rams in three of the past four seasons, provides an experienced and steady presence for the Steelers' offensive line. Love is expected to flip to the left side in Pittsburgh, providing stability to the position from 1991. His physicality and experience should bolster a line that struggled at times in '91. With his addition, the Steelers will be hoping for more consistency in their rushing attack, which will be key to establishing a balanced offense.

Mark Royals, the punter acquired from Tampa Bay, will replace Stryzinski and will be tasked with improving the field position game. The Steelers are hoping Royals can provide stability to a special teams unit that has had its share of struggles in recent years.

The Draft: A Focus on Youth and Talent

The 1992 NFL Draft was a pivotal moment for the Steelers as they looked to build a new foundation. The team made strategic selections to address key positions and set the stage for future success. Several of the drafted players are expected to make an immediate impact.

The top pick, Leon Searcy, was selected 11th overall and is projected to be able to play guard or tackle at the NFL level. The former Miami (FL) standout will bring power, athleticism, and a tenacious work ethic to Pittsburgh’s offensive line. With Tunch Ilkin entrenched on the right side and John Jackson playing the left, Searcy will help provide versatile depth in '92 and solidify the line as a future starter down the road.

In the second round, the Steelers selected Levon Kirkland, a linebacker out of Clemson. At 6'1" and 275 pounds, Kirkland brings size and strength to a linebacker corps that already includes turnover specialist Greg Lloyd, speedy Jerrol Williams, the steady David Little, and tackling machine Hardy Nickerson. Kirkland is expected to contribute immediately and provide valuable depth and versatility, with the potential to start at inside linebacker down the road.

In the third round, Pittsburgh picked Joel Steed, a nose tackle from Colorado. Steed will provide much-needed size and bulk to the defensive line and should help anchor a run defense that needs to improve. Steed’s ability to clog up the middle will free up a group of LBs the Steelers really like to make plays on a consistent basis.

Additionally, Charles Davenport, a wide receiver out of North Carolina State, was selected in the fourth round. Davenport brings speed and playmaking ability to a receiving corps that includes Yancey Thigpen and Ernie Mills as potential depth behind starters Jeff Graham and Dwight Stone. While not a starter immediately, Davenport’s ability to stretch the field will be valuable as the Steelers look for more big-play opportunities on offense.

Other notable draft picks include Alan Haller, a cornerback from Michigan State, who adds depth to the secondary, and Darren Perry, a free safety from Penn State, who provides support in the defensive backfield and looks to be a day one starter at FS. Allowing the team to move DBs Rod Woodson and Carnell Lake to move around in the new scheme Cowher and his staff brings.

Coaching Staff: Bill Cowher’s New Vision

As Bill Cowher takes over as head coach, he has made several changes to the coaching staff to reflect his vision for the team. Known for his defensive mindset, Cowher hired Dom Capers as defensive coordinator. Capers, who had success as a secondary coach in New Orleans, will help develop the Steelers' defense into a more aggressive and attacking unit, emphasizing turnovers and pass rush.

On the offensive side of the ball, Cowher hired Ron Erhardt as offensive coordinator. Erhardt, who served as the Giants offensive coordinator in the late under Bill Parcells during the Giants recent championship runs, will oversee the offense and work to build a more balanced attack. Cowher also kept Dick Hoak as the running backs coach.

One of the new additions to Cowher’s staff is Marvin Lewis, who will coach the linebackers. Lewis, a former linebacker himself, will help develop the next generation of Steelers linebackers, including rookies like Levon Kirkland. Another new addition is Dick LeBeau, who will coach the defensive backs. LeBeau is known for his innovative defensive schemes and will work with a secondary that features Rod Woodson and Carnell Lake.

The special teams will be overseen by John Guy, a new addition to the staff as a titled coach. He had previously served on the team as a defensive intern in previous seasons.

The Road Ahead

The 1992 Pittsburgh Steelers are entering a season of change, but one thing remains clear: this team is still committed to the tradition of hard-hitting, blue-collar football that has defined the franchise for six decades. Under Bill Cowher’s leadership, the Steelers are poised to build a team that is tough, physical, and relentless. With key acquisitions like Duval Love and Mark Royals, as well as the promising rookie class, Pittsburgh is taking the first steps toward a new era of success. The Pittsburgh Steelers are in a state of transition. With an eye on the future, the Steelers will look to blend veteran leadership with youthful energy. Here's a closer look at the projected starters and key expectations for each unit as the Steelers begin their 60th Anniversary season in 1992.

Offensive Starters:

Quarterback: Neil O'Donnell (26)

With Bubby Brister now a backup, Neil O'Donnell takes the reins as the Steelers’ starting quarterback. The 26-year-old is coming off a decent 1991 season in which he threw for 1,963 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions in 8 starts. The team will rely on O'Donnell's growth and decision-making to keep the offense steady and efficient, especially as he builds chemistry with his young receiving corps. The key for O'Donnell in 1992 will be improving his consistency and avoiding the costly mistakes that plagued the offense in 1991.

Running Back: Barry Foster (24)

Barry Foster made 9 starts 1991. He looks to serve a much larger role in 1992. In the new Steelers offense he will enter the regular season as the feature back for the first time in his career

Fullback: Merril Hoge (27)

Merril Hoge will continue to be a steady force in the backfield. A versatile player who excels at blocking, catching passes, and moving the chains, Hoge will be relied upon to help open running lanes for Foster while also being a safety valve in the passing game. His ability to do the dirty work and contribute in multiple facets makes him an invaluable part of the offense. It will be a transition for Hoge after being the feature back in 1991.

Wide Receiver: Jeff Graham (23)

The Steelers will look to Jeff Graham to step up in 1992 after essentially being in Noll's dog house in 1991. The new regime likes Graham's route-running ability to make circus catches, and he’ll be expected to help make plays for O'Donnell. With the departure of Louis Lipps after a long contract dispute, Graham’s role in the offense will only grow, and he will be tasked with becoming the team's top playmaker on the outside. He'll need to make plays for the offense to be succesful.

Wide Receiver: Dwight Stone (28)

Dwight Stone, a veteran of the receiving corps, will be another key piece in the passing attack. Stone has shown that he could make big plays, particularly down the field. The Steelers will look for him to contribute as a reliable target and provide balance to the passing game alongside Graham. Can he do so consistently enough?

Tight End: Eric Green (25)

Green, who stands a towering 6’6” and weighs in at 270 pounds, is a physical freak of nature. His combination of size, speed, and soft hands has made him a matchup nightmare for defenders, and in 1992, the Steelers will look to fully unlock his potential. Green averaged 3.7 catches and over 50 yards per game. Erhardt has loved using the TE in the passing game in the past. Maybe a match made in heaven?

Left Tackle: John Jackson (27)

John Jackson remains a steady force on the offensive line at left tackle. While he's not the flashiest player, Jackson has been solid in pass protection and run blocking, allowing him to be a reliable anchor for the Steelers' offensive front. His consistency will be crucial as the Steelers' offense looks to protect O'Donnell and establish a balanced attack.

Left Guard: Duval Love (29)

After joining the Steelers via Plan B free agency from the LA Rams, Duval Love will be slotted in at left guard. A proven starter for the Rams, Love brings much-needed experience and versatility to the line. The Steelers are hoping that Love can make a smooth transition to his new role and solidify the left side of the offensive line (which was an issue in 1991), particularly in the run game.

Center: Dermontti Dawson (27)

On the cusp of becoming one of the league's top centers, Dermontti Dawson will continue to anchor the offensive line in 1992. Dawson’s ability to handle defensive tackles and read defenses has made him one of the most respected players in the building. With his leadership and technical skills, Dawson will be key in both the running and passing game, ensuring that the offensive line can stay cohesive and effective.

Right Guard: Carlton Haselrig (26)

Carlton Haselrig’s development will be a key storyline for the Steelers in 1992. After a promising first season as a starter, Haselrig is expected to continue growing as a powerful presence in the interior of the offensive line as he possess rare athleticism for the position. His ability to handle defensive linemen and help create space for the running backs will be crucial, especially as the team looks to improve its overall offensive line play.

Right Tackle: Tunch Ilkin (35)

Veteran right tackle Tunch Ilkin will once again provide stability to the offensive line. While he may be on the back end of his career, Ilkin’s experience and leadership are invaluable. He’s still more than capable of holding up against pass rushers, and the Steelers will rely on him to be a solid performer in his final seasons.

Defensive Starters:

Left Defensive End: Kenny Davidson (25)

Kenny Davidson will start at left defensive end, bringing a strong physical presence to the line. While he has yet to emerge as a consistent pass rusher, Davidson’s size and motor look to make him a key part of the Steelers' defensive front. His ability to handle double teams and clog the run lanes will be critical to the defense's success as he enters his first season as a starter.

Nose Tackle: Gerald Williams (29)

As the starting nose tackle, Gerald Williams will be tasked with controlling the line of scrimmage. Williams has been a steady performer for the Steelers over the years, and his ability to eat up blockers will free up the linebackers to make plays. While not a big sack producer, his role in stopping the run and occupying blockers is indispensable.

Right Defensive End: Donald Evans (28)

Donald Evans will continue as the starting right defensive end. Known for his solid all-around play, Evans is capable of generating pressure on the quarterback and being a disruptive force against the run. With 2 sacks and a fumble recovery last season, Evans will look to improve his pass rush and become a more consistent force on the edge.

Left Outside Linebacker: Jerrol Williams (25)

Jerrol Williams, who showed flashes of a solid pass rusher with a team high 9 sacks in 1991, will start at left outside linebacker. Williams brings athleticism and speed to the position, and the Steelers will need him to continue developing as a key edge rusher. His ability to get to the quarterback will be essential for the Steelers' defense to stay aggressive and disruptive under Cowher and Capers.

Inside Linebacker: Hardy Nickerson (27)

Hardy Nickerson is a leader in the middle of the defense and will continue to play a pivotal role in 1992. A strong tackler with the ability to cover ground, Nickerson will be responsible for making key stops in the run game and also being a reliable force in pass coverage. His leadership on and off the field will be vital for the Steelers' linebacking corps.

Inside Linebacker: David Little (33)

Veteran inside linebacker David Little will provide stability and leadership to the defense. While Little may not have the same athleticism he had earlier in his career, he remains a smart, sure tackler and a solid presence in the middle. His experience and communication will help keep the defense aligned and ready to react.

Right Outside Linebacker: Greg Lloyd (27)

Greg Lloyd is one of the most dynamic players on the defense. A relentless pass rusher and playmaker, Lloyd made his first Pro Bowl and recorded 8 sacks in 1991 and added 6 forced fumbles. The Steelers will count on him to be their top pass rusher and to make key plays in the backfield. Lloyd’s fiery attitude and ability to make game-changing plays will be critical for the Steelers in 1992.

Left Cornerback: Rod Woodson (27)

Rod Woodson remains one of the NFL’s premier cornerbacks. Known for his ability to lock down receivers and create turnovers, Woodson has been slected to 3 pro bowls and 2 All Pro teams in his first 5 seasons. As one of the top defensive players on the team, Woodson’s playmaking ability will be key in shutting down opposing passing games and creating opportunities for the Steelers' offense. Woodson will also serve as the team leading kick/punt returner.

Right Cornerback: D.J. Johnson (26)

D.J. Johnson will continue his role at right cornerback in 1992. The Steelers will need him to continuing being consistent with teams targeting him opposite Woodson.

Strong Safety: Carnell Lake

The Steelers feel Carnell Lake is an emerging star in the secondary. After a solid 1991 season, Lake will be relied upon to contribute in both pass coverage and run defense. His physicality and ability to cover ground make him a key piece of the Steelers’ defense. Look for Lake to continue to develop as a key playmaker for the Steelers under the tutelage of Dick LeBeau.

Free Safety: Darren Perry (24)

Darren Perry will step in as the starting free safety in his rookie season. While unproven at the NFL level, Perry’s instincts and playmaking ability will be crucial. The Steelers are hoping his ball skills (6 interceptions his last season in college and 7 in the one prior) will translate to the NFL as they look for him to contribute in the secondary alongside Woodson and Lake. He replaces FS Thomas Everett as the team felt its depth was good enough to move the former starter.

Kicker: Gary Anderson (33)

Anderson is one of the most reliable kickers in one of the toughest cities to kick. The 2 time Pro Bowler sports a field goal percentage of 76.3% on his career. He will be counted to maximize drives for the Steelers as they look to score more often than they have in recent seasons.

Punter: Mark Royals (27)

Royals’ ability to directional punt makes him a weapon for the Steelers’ field-position battle. In 1991, he made the most of his opportunities to pin teams as only 5 of his punts traveled inside the 20.


The Steelers’ 1992 season is set to be one of growth and transition. While there are plenty of question marks, especially with a revamped coaching staff and several key losses, the Steelers' blend of talented young players and seasoned veterans offers hope for a promising future. If the team can gel quickly under Cowher's leadership, they could surprise many in what looks to be a competitive AFC.

[CoachCot]

Breaking News: NFL's Plan B Ruled in Violation of Antitrust Laws

In a landmark ruling today, a federal judge declared that the NFL's so-called "Plan B" free agency system, which allowed teams to protect a limited number of players from free agency, constitutes a violation of U.S. antitrust laws. Sources say the NFL will appeal the ruling.

The decision, delivered in a federal courtroom, has far-reaching implications for the future of player movement and team-building in the NFL. Plan B, which was introduced in 1989 as an alternative to unrestricted free agency, allowed NFL teams to retain exclusive rights over certain players by designating them as "protected" or "unprotected." Unprotected players were allowed to negotiate contracts with other teams, but the original team had the option to match offers or receive compensation.

However, the ruling today found that the system unfairly restricted players' ability to freely negotiate their worth, and that it acted as an illegal restraint on trade. The court's decision is expected to force the league to overhaul its free agency rules, potentially paving the way for a more open and competitive market for players.

The NFL Players Association (NFLPA), which has long criticized Plan B as being inequitable, celebrated the ruling as a major victory for players' rights. "This is a significant step toward ensuring that players have the freedom to negotiate for the best possible contract without artificial limitations," said NFLPA Executive Director Gene Upshaw.

The NFL, which implemented Plan B as a way to maintain competitive balance among teams, has yet to comment publicly on the ruling. However, the league is likely to appeal the decision, given the potential for significant changes to the structure of player contracts and free agency.

If upheld, the ruling could signal the end of Plan B and lead to a more unrestricted free agent market, similar to that in other professional sports leagues. With the NFL currently in the middle of its offseason, the coming weeks could prove to be a crucial period in shaping the future landscape of professional football.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.