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While the Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense got a glowing review from a receiver, star defender T.J. Watt weighed in on the offense. But there are plenty of question marks on the latter side of the ball. And that’s why the Steelers’ biggest reason to panic after the start of 2025 NFL training camp is the offense.
Sure, the Steelers got their quarterback in Aaron Rodgers. They reeled in a big-time receiver in D.K. Metcalf. But what do the Steelers have beyond those guys that brings a lot of excitement?
The Steelers have their work cut out for them as the 2025 season arrives.
Yes, there are those who want to hype train the Steelers into Super Bowl contention. But what about the more realistic move that requires a move into playoff contention first?
Think the playoffs are a shoo-in? Look at Rodgers’ age. Will the 41-year-old former superstar hold up for a full season? Will he be able to carry the offense if the running game doesn’t shine? And will he connect with Metcalf to form a threatening duo?
Tomlin tried to brush aside concerns, according to espn.com.
“Just still at the very early stages of development,” he said. “I appreciate the approach to learning and getting better and managing the installs.”
It’s reasonable not to worry too much at this point. It’s still early August. However, the season comes fast. And will all the question marks fall into place?
And one thing Tomlin can’t do is overload Rodgers during training camp. He must manage his workload.
“He’s a workaholic,” Tomlin said. “I don’t have a whole lot of reservations about that. I think he’s hardened himself over the course of his career with his attitude toward work. Certainly I’m going to limit him in some instances. But when I do, it’s going to be more about elevating opportunities for guys like Will Howard. And less about preserving him to be quite honest with you.”
The bad thing is Rodgers likely won’t be patient if things start to unravel. And a few rough moments in practice can add up. The Steelers had some of those on Friday.
“Obviously we didn’t execute how we wanted to, but we got to continue to build on that,” tight end Freiermuth said. “It was our first two-minute all of camp, and so obviously we wish it ended differently. But we’re working towards the end goal of week one and being able to execute. There’s going to be some ups and downs, and we’ll get it corrected.”
The Steelers averaged only 4.1 yards per carry in 2024. That ranked in the bottom 10 of the NFL. And they don’t have Najee Harris now.
Leading the way are Jaylen Warren and rookie running back Kaleb Johnson. Kenneth Gainwell helps round out the depth.
The Steelers have struggled so far in camp on offense, but Tomlin downplayed the issues, according to yahoo.com.
“I...
