NFLPA report cards: Dolphins rank first, Steelers last in annual team surveys, per report
CBS Sports
by
Bryan DeArdo
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The NFL Players Association's annual report cards revealed significant disparities among teams, with the Miami Dolphins earning top honors and the Pittsburgh Steelers ranking last for the first time. The survey, based on responses from 1,759 players, highlighted key areas of improvement for both clubs. The Dolphins' strong showing was noted for their natural grass field at Hard Rock Stadium, which ranked fourth overall in home field quality. Meanwhile, the Steelers faced criticism across multiple categories, including facility ratings and leadership, with their locker room receiving an F due to inadequate facilities.
The Steelers' struggles extended to their home field, which shared space with the University of Pittsburgh and high school playoff games, leading to suboptimal playing conditions. Players noted that this schedule resulted in a worn-out surface, affecting game performance. The team's facilities were also criticized, with only five bathroom stalls available for the entire squad. Art Rooney, the Steelers' president, ranked last in "willingness to invest in facilities," a trend reflected in poor ratings across the board.
The NFL intervened by winning a grievance against the NFLPA, preventing the public release of the report cards. The league argued that the survey violated the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) by disparaging clubs and individuals. An arbitrator agreed, stating the report cards were not in line with the CBA's terms. Despite this, the NFLPA plans to continue collecting player feedback for future reference.
This situation underscores the ongoing tension between player advocacy and league policies. The report cards provide valuable insights into team management and player satisfaction, which are crucial factors influencing team performance. For fans, understanding these behind-the-scenes dynamics adds depth to their appreciation of how teams operate on and off the field.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/26/2026