Despite ending their 2024 season with five straight losses, the Pittsburgh Steelers enter 2025 with renewed optimism. The team has made significant offseason upgrades and is being considered by some, perhaps controversially, as a dark-horse Super Bowl contender. With an improved roster and a return to physical, complementary football, Pittsburgh seems poised to return to its old, winning identity.
Replacing previous quarterback options, Aaron Rodgers steps in as a seasoned game manager with a championship pedigree. Although he’s nearing the twilight of his career, Rodgers brings confidence, leadership, and a risk-averse style that fits Pittsburgh’s tough, low-mistake approach. His arrival gives the team and head coach Mike Tomlin a sense of legitimacy and belief.
The Steelers offense in 2025 will lean on ball control and quick, decisive plays. With new weapons like DK Metcalf and Jonnu Smith, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith can open the playbook. This approach pairs well with Rodgers’ strengths and could produce more explosive plays than fans have seen since the Ben Roethlisberger era.
Rodgers Guides Offensive Line While Watt, Ramsey, Slay Anchor Dominant Steelers Defense Unit
Rodgers’ presence will benefit Pittsburgh’s young offensive line by helping them read defenses and set protections. His pre-snap awareness and control over play calls should lead to more favorable matchups and better rushing efficiency. Expect the Steelers to pound the ball inside against light boxes while still taking deep shots downfield.
Aaron Rodgers (NFL)On defense, Pittsburgh looks dominant. Jalen Ramsey and Darius Slay join the secondary, giving the Steelers the flexibility to play tight man coverage against top-tier wideouts. Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin can use Ramsey as a versatile piece, blitzing, covering, and supporting the run, all while creating mismatches across the field.
Edge rusher T.J. Watt remains the centerpiece of Pittsburgh’s defense. Fresh off a massive contract extension, Watt brings energy and game-changing ability to the front seven. Alongside veterans like Cameron Heyward and newcomers like Patrick Queen, Watt leads a unit that aims to dominate at the line of scrimmage and force turnovers.
Steelers’ Grit And NFC’s Rising Challengers Threaten Eagles’ Path To Dominance
Though not as deep or talented across the board as the NFL’s elite, the Steelers could win games through physicality and toughness. If Rodgers delivers in clutch moments and the defense remains healthy and aggressive, Pittsburgh can win close, low-scoring games, exactly the kind that define playoff football.
Among teams poised to challenge the Eagles in the NFC, the Rams top the list. After nearly upsetting Philly in the Divisional Round, they return with a bolstered offense that includes Davante Adams. With young defenders maturing into stars and the elite McVay-Stafford duo leading the way, L.A. is a legitimate Super Bowl threat.
The Washington Commanders, led by breakout quarterback Jayden Daniels, are also contenders. Key additions like Deebo Samuel and Laremy Tunsil bolster the offense, while defensive reinforcements round out a well-balanced squad. However, the unresolved contract dispute with Terry McLaurin could hinder offensive rhythm if not resolved soon.
The Green Bay Packers, led by a developing Jordan Love, have a versatile offense and a schematically complex defense. With new weapons like Matthew Golden and Savion Williams, and a defense that thrives on blitz disguise, the Packers could surprise many. If Love stays healthy, Green Bay is a serious NFC title contender.
