Today at Sportsvival, we wrap up our AFC North preview with the hometown team—the Pittsburgh Steelers. What can we expect from our boys starting on Sunday?
Quarterback Overhaul: Rodgers & Beyond
The Steelers walked away from both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields to bring in future Hall-of-Famer Aaron Rodgers on a one-year deal. On the surface it seemed confusing—until you understand the logic:
Rodgers is here for 12 months, a bridge to rookie Will Howard.
He posted 29 touchdowns last season—more than Patrick Mahomes or Jalen Hurts—even on a dysfunctional Jets team.
His veteran presence could accelerate Howard’s development and stabilize the offense in 2025.
Receiving Corps: Finding the WR2
Inconsistency at the No. 2 receiver spot has been a thorn. Calvin Austin showed promise before hitting the injury list, but a homegrown solution may be rising:
Roman Wilson struggled as a rookie but impressed in preseason.
He flashed reliable hands on slants and crossing routes, plus deep-ball juice.
If Wilson cements that role, the Steelers will have the complimentary threat they’ve been missing.
Offensive Structure: Tight Ends & O-Line Strength
Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith enjoyed a solid debut year—can he level up in 2025?
Three viable tight ends: Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, and newly acquired Jonnu Smith. Smith’s affinity for two-TE sets suits Rodgers perfectly.
Young offensive line on the rise: Broderick Jones back at left tackle, Zach Frazier poised as a top-tier center, and return-to-form tackle Troy Fantanu.
A potent backfield mix: rookie Kaleb Johnson and veteran Jaylen Warren project as one of the league’s best one-two punches.
Defensive Reload: Watt, Heyward & New Additions
The Steelers doubled down on defense, even trading Minkah Fitzpatrick for corner Jalen Ramsey and adding safety Juan Thornhill in free agency.
Juan Thornhill played with hard-hitting physicality and sticky coverage during preseason.
TJ Watt anchors the pass rush, and Cam Heyward remains a disruptive force if his holdout ends.
Rising depth pieces like defensive lineman Derrick Harmon (pre-injury) and fifth-round steal Yahya Black bolster an already loaded unit.
Under the Khan regime, cultural and organizational tweaks have yielded what Bill Cowher called the best Steelers roster since their last playoff win in Cincinnati eight years ago.
Final Thoughts & Prediction
Pittsburgh stands at a crossroads: a retooled offense led by Rodgers and budding playmakers, against a defense that could rank among the NFL’s elite if it stays healthy. Will the new culture spark a breakthrough, or are we on repeat? As Einstein warned about insanity, only time will tell.
Prediction: 11–6 Record | 2nd Place in the AFC North
(photo courtesy of Still Curtain)