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‘The Offense Has Some Big Question Marks’ — Ex-NFL QB Predicts Steelers’ 2025 Performance With Aaron Rodgers

The Pittsburgh Steelers made one of the NFL’s boldest offseason moves by signing veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, igniting a wave of speculation about their ceiling in 2025. But despite the addition of the future Hall of Famer, some analysts remain unconvinced the team has turned a corner.

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Dan Orlovsky Warns Rodgers Alone Won’t Solve Steelers’ Offensive Struggles

Appearing on The Pat McAfee Show, ESPN analyst and former quarterback Dan Orlovsky expressed lingering doubts about the Steelers’ offense, pointing to persistent concerns from the 2024 season.


“I still think the offense has some big question marks,” Orlovsky said, noting that Pittsburgh’s offensive line remains a liability. He specifically highlighted the unit’s pass protection issues, which he believes could undercut any potential boost Rodgers provides.

The Steelers’ line will be under close watch, with left tackle Broderick Jones facing a pivotal year and second-year right tackle Troy Fautanu returning from a knee injury. Mason McCormick steps in as the full-time starter at right guard, adding to the uncertainty surrounding a young and largely untested unit. Orlovsky emphasized that unless this group shows significant improvement, Rodgers’ impact could be minimized.

Wide receiver DK Metcalf, acquired via trade from the Seahawks, stands as the offense’s most dangerous weapon. But Orlovsky warned that the lack of a viable second option on the perimeter is a major concern. He acknowledged tight end Pat Freiermuth’s ability but insisted Pittsburgh lacks another receiver who can truly threaten defenses.

Pittsburgh has reportedly explored additions such as Gabe Davis and inquired about tight ends Kyle Pitts and Jonnu Smith to reinforce the receiving corps.

Orlovsky did not mince words when comparing the Steelers’ outlook to their AFC rivals. “The Broncos are going to be better than the Steelers,” he predicted, citing Denver’s emerging young core led by head coach Sean Payton and second-year quarterback Bo Nix. Both teams finished 10-7 last season and lost in the Wild Card round, but Orlovsky suggested Denver’s trajectory is far more promising.

Despite Rodgers’ impressive resume, Orlovsky remains skeptical that the 41-year-old quarterback alone can elevate Pittsburgh to contender status in an increasingly competitive AFC. The analyst acknowledged that Rodgers is a clear upgrade under center but warned that without serious improvement along the offensive line and more weapons in the passing game, the Steelers could again fall short in the 2025 NFL season.

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1 COMMENT

  1. a true Pittsburgh Steelers fan, since the 70’s with Aaron Rodgers as the Steelers quarterback will be a nightmare because Aaron Rodgers never faced both the Cleveland Browns and the Baltimore Ravens defense two times a year and they are both very physical

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