The Pittsburgh Steelers had some unfortunate moments on the offensive side of the football during the 2024 season. It started with a myriad of injuries to their offensive line. Then Broderick Jones began to regress in his development, and the unit was forced to rely on young players like Mason McCormick. While some rookies stepped up admirably, the group as a whole eventually hit the rookie wall, and the offense struggled to maintain consistency late in the year.
Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Mason McCormick stands in the huddle with the rest of the offensive line during a home game.
Heading into the 2025 season, having a dominant and reliable offensive line is absolutely essential. With 41-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers leading the offense, protecting him will be one of the Steelers' biggest challenges. The team is counting on Rodgers to bring experience and leadership, but none of that will matter if the offensive line cannot give him time to operate.
Steelers insider Mike DeFabo recently reported via his article in The Athletic, that General Manager Omar Khan may not be finished upgrading the offensive line. Even after investing in young talent and making offseason moves, Khan is still looking for ways to improve. Whether through free agency, a potential trade, or roster cuts from other teams, Pittsburgh seems committed to doing everything possible to strengthen the line before the 2025 season begins.
"I could definitely see the Steelers looking for a more experienced swing tackle, especially considering Jones’ up-and-down play during his first two seasons and [Troy] Fautanu’s injury history," DeFabo said. "An addition like that could bump Calvin Anderson out of the picture. If the Steelers can find a more established guard, [Max] Scharping’s spot could also be in jeopardy."
Steelers fans were noticeably disappointed with Jones’ performance during the 2024 season. The young offensive tackle seemed to take steps backward in his development, struggling with consistency and technique. Now, with Fautanu returning from injury, Jones can move back to his natural position at left tackle, which should help him settle in and improve.
Sebastian Foltz / Post-Gazette
Steelers offensive linemen Troy Fautanu and Zach Frazier work out with the team.
Even with that shift, DeFabo believes Khan may still be looking to improve the depth of the offensive line. While the starting group could be more stable this season, the lack of proven depth remains a concern for the team.
With Rodgers now in Pittsburgh, protecting the veteran quarterback must be a top priority. Adding more talent and experience to the offensive line would be a smart move to help ensure Rodgers stays healthy and productive throughout the 2025 season.
"Last year, the Steelers kept nine offensive linemen on the initial 53-man roster," DeFabo said. "The five starters (from left to right) will be: LT Broderick Jones, LG Isaac Seumalo, C Zach Frazier, RG Mason McCormick and RT Troy Fautanu. As it stands now, Ryan McCollum fits as a backup center, Calvin Anderson is a backup tackle, Max Scharping is a backup guard and Spencer Anderson can play all five positions in a pinch."
The news that Rodgers would be joining the Steelers for the 2025 season dramatically shifted expectations for what this team can achieve. While Rodgers is no longer the four-time MVP at the peak of his powers, Head Coach Mike Tomlin remains confident in his ability to command an offense and elevate those around him even at this stage of his career.
Steelers Clearly Have Faith In Aaron Rodgers
Tomlin clearly believes Rodgers still has enough left in the tank to lead the Steelers on a deep playoff run and perhaps even contend for a Super Bowl. While that might sound ambitious, it is hard to ignore the flashes Rodgers showed late in the 2024 season. His experience, leadership, and football IQ give the Steelers a legitimate shot if the right pieces fall into place.
Steelers.com
Steelers' Aaron Rodgers speaks to members of the Pittsburgh media.
One of those key pieces is the offensive line. Even a modest upgrade up front could make a significant difference in keeping Rodgers upright and comfortable in the pocket. Strengthening that unit may not grab headlines, but it could be the move that helps Pittsburgh emerge as a serious contender in 2025.
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