Steelers Have 3 Offensive Weapons Ready To Explode With Aaron Rodgers In 2025

The Pittsburgh Steelers have had quite an interesting offseason, and one of the biggest headlines was Aaron Rodgers finally joining the team. All offseason, it was assumed Rodgers would sign a one-year deal with Pittsburgh, but Steelers fans needed to see it to believe it. Now, with Rodgers in the Steel City and some new faces around him, the Steelers have several exciting candidates for breakout seasons in 2025.

Rodgers brings experience, leadership, and the kind of presence that can elevate an entire offense. With his arrival, expectations have shifted, and players who may have flown under the radar in recent seasons now have a real shot to shine. The new offensive system, combined with Rodgers' ability to read defenses and deliver precise throws, creates the perfect conditions for a few key players to take their game to the next level.

Whether it’s a young receiver, a developing tight end, or a backfield weapon ready for more touches, there are several names to watch as the 2025 season approaches. Here are three offensive players who are in the best position to break out with Rodgers leading the way.

3.) Darnell Washington

It almost feels too obvious to add Washington to this list because Steelers fans say it every year. The 6’7” tight end is a monster, and if he can take a step forward in the passing game, he has a chance to do something few tight ends can. He’s massive and elite at blocking, but many Steelers fans are still wondering if Washington can finally be unlocked as a true weapon in the offensive attack.

In his first two seasons, the Steelers didn’t throw to Washington much, but he showed flashes of potential when given the chance. There are reports that he has made noticeable improvements this offseason, and with Rodgers hyping him up, many believe Washington is due for a breakout year.

The Steelers' tight end room is loaded with talent, featuring Pat Freiermuth, Jonnu Smith, and Washington. It will be fascinating to see how Arthur Smith schemes up ways to get all three involved, especially with Rodgers under center.

2.) Calvin Austin III And Roman Wilson

These two wide receivers are getting lumped together because they are basically in the exact same situation. Calvin Austin III has had experience and proven to be productive when called upon. His 2024 season was solid, and he will be in a great position to be the second wide receiver, but he will have to outperform Roman Wilson.

The Steelers drafted Wilson with the idea that he could be productive in his first season. Wilson had an unfortunate rookie year plagued by injuries and limited playing time. Now in his second season, he is in a prime spot to break out. Both wide receivers should have big seasons playing with Rodgers.

1.) Jaylen Warren

The Steelers moved on from running back Najee Harris and drafted Kaleb Johnson to replace him. However, Jaylen Warren is now considered the running back one (RB1) in the Steel City. Warren is going to benefit big time from having Rodgers in town. He thrives out of the backfield both as a runner and as a pass catcher.

With Rodgers being 41 years old and questions surrounding the offensive line, checkdowns to Warren should be very fruitful. Combined with the tight end schemes Pittsburgh will use, Warren could be deployed much more as a receiver. He should be in for a massive year both as a runner and a pass catcher in 2025.

Steelers' Offensive Line Must Be Great In 2025

The Steelers' offensive line was young and faced some unfortunate challenges in 2024. That was largely due to injuries, but Pittsburgh is now moving Broderick Jones to his natural position. They also get Troy Fautanu back, who was so impressive early in the season that Mike Tomlin was ready to make him a starter as a rookie.

Fautanu got hurt, and other rookies stepped up, but seemed to hit a rookie wall toward the end of the season. With Rodgers’ age, it will be important to protect him, and if the Steelers can do that, several players on the offensive side of the football should have solid seasons.

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