Aaron Rodgers is entering his first season with the Pittsburgh Steelers amid high expectations, aiming to turn around the team’s fortunes after his recent struggles with the New York Jets. The four-time <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL MVP signed a one-year contract in June and is set to be the starting quarterback as the Steelers attempt to strengthen their playoff hopes. However, sports analyst Stephen A. Smith has expressed skepticism about whether Rodgers and the Steelers’ offense can lead the team to a postseason victory this year.
On Tuesday, Smith shared his doubts in a discussion highlighted by Steelers Depot on social media platform X/Twitter, emphasizing that while the defense remains strong, the offense might not be capable enough to carry the team deep into the playoffs this season.
Defense Remains Strong but Offensive Uncertainty Looms
Smith acknowledged the Steelers’ defensive unit as a notable strength, praising veterans and new additions alike. He mentioned players such as T.J. Watt and Patrick Queen, along with the recent first-round draft pick, defensive end Harmon, expecting the defense to maintain or even elevate its performance in the upcoming season.
“You look at the Pittsburgh Steelers, you’re gonna have to do more than having an elite defense in order to win a playoff game,” Smith said. “But make the playoffs, even though it’s a bit compelling, I’m looking at you, you kept T.J. Watt, you still got Patrick Queen and the crew. I mean, like you said, they can cover. You drafted the defensive end in Harmon and to come out, you know, first round, 25th pick, what are you doing with him?” —Stephen A. Smith
“He’s gonna be starting for you. So I’m looking at them and I’m saying, I don’t expect their defense to dip. I expect their defense to elevate,” Smith added. —Stephen A. Smith
Smith believes the defense should bolster the team’s chances of securing a playoff berth, particularly within the competitive AFC. However, he remains cautious about the offensive side of the ball.
“And if your defense elevates within the AFC, and you got a quarterback that doesn’t really turn the ball over, which is what Aaron Rodgers is not known to do for the most part, I’m gonna take those things into consideration. And I’m gonna say yeah, that’s enough to get them into the playoffs, whether you’re gonna win a playoff game. That’s a question.” —Stephen A. Smith
Steelers’ Offseason Moves Highlight Efforts To Bolster Offense
Alongside Aaron Rodgers’ arrival, the Steelers have made significant roster changes this offseason to improve their offensive capabilities. They traded for wide receiver DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks, aiming to add a dynamic weapon to their passing game. Additionally, the team secured Super Bowl LVI champion cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith from the Miami Dolphins, while letting go of safety Minkah Fitzpatrick as part of roster adjustments.
Early preseason activity has seen mixed results, with the Steelers winning their opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars but then losing to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last week. These games have offered glimpses of how the new additions fit into the team’s system, though questions remain about offensive consistency.
Questions Surround Rodgers’ Preseason Participation and Season Debut
Fans have eagerly awaited Rodgers’ first appearance in a Steelers uniform, but he has not played in either of the team’s first two preseason games. Head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed on Tuesday that Rodgers will also sit out the preseason finale against the Carolina Panthers, along with several other starters including DK Metcalf, Cam Heyward, and T.J. Watt, according to NFL insider Andrew Siciliano.
The Steelers are scheduled to begin the regular season on September 7, opening on the road against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium, where Rodgers is expected to finally make his debut.
Outlook for Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers This Season
While the Steelers appear well-positioned to return to the playoffs, much of their success depends on whether Aaron Rodgers can reinvigorate the offense and limit turnovers. The defense continues to be a cornerstone of the team’s identity, but winning a playoff game likely requires more offensive firepower and consistency than the team has shown so far.
As the regular season approaches, all eyes will be on Rodgers’ performance and how quickly he adapts to the Steelers’ system. The team’s moves this offseason show a clear intent to compete at a higher level, but Stephen A. Smith’s concerns underline that the path to postseason victories may be challenging.