Steelers Legend Jerome Bettis Urges Team To Avoid Critical Mistake With Aaron Rodgers (Steelers News)
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Steelers Legend Jerome Bettis Urges Team To Avoid Critical Mistake With Aaron Rodgers

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The Pittsburgh Steelers have made several roster changes this offseason that have sparked excitement about the new talent and the impact it could have on the team. Now, even former Steelers legends are weighing in and sharing their thoughts on the team’s direction.

Steelers' Mike Tomlin

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Steelers' Mike Tomlin coaching up his team during the 2025 Organized Team Activities.

Recently, Steelers legend Jerome Bettis joined The Dan Patrick Show to discuss the team’s latest offseason moves. While Bettis expressed support for the direction the Steelers are heading, he stressed the importance of maintaining a balanced offensive attack, expressing the importance of keeping it balanced. He cautioned the team not to make a critical mistake with new veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers this season.

"Well you’re still going to throw the football, but you’re still going to have to run the football," Bettis said. "If you ask Aaron Rodgers to throw the ball 40 times, that’s a mistake. And Aaron would tell you that’s a mistake."

Bettis is one of the most well-known and respected players in Steelers history. Nicknamed "The Bus" for his powerful running style, he played as the team’s running back from 1996 to 2005. Bettis was a key part of the Steelers’ offense for nearly a decade and helped lead the team to a Super Bowl win in his final season. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015.

Steelers Retired Running Back Jerome Bettis

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Pittsburgh Steelers' Jerome Bettis runs in for a one-yard score against the Cleveland Browns at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on November 13, 2005.

Throughout history, especially during the era when Bettis was on the team, the Steelers have been known for having a strong, run-heavy offensive scheme that emphasized physicality. On the other hand, Rodgers has built his career around his elite passing ability, known for having one of the best arms in NFL history and making incredible throws under pressure. 

However, despite his impressive resume, there are valid concerns about Rodgers heading into this season, particularly when it comes to his age. At 41 years old, he is currently the oldest active player in the league, raising questions about his durability and ability to play at a high level for a full season.

In addition to bringing in Rodgers, the Steelers have made several key moves to strengthen the offense around him by adding multiple new offense weapons. They've added powerhouse veteran wide receiver DK Metcalf and tight end Jonnu Smith, giving Rodgers reliable and talented targets. 

Understanding the importance of protecting their aging quarterback, the Steelers have also prioritized improvements to the offensive line. This unit has faced criticism and struggled with injuries in recent seasons, but the organization has clearly made a strong effort to rebuild and reinforce it, recognizing that a solid offensive line will be essential to the team's overall success.

Steelers Mason Cole Isaac Seumalo Offensive Line

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Steelers' offensive line at 2023 training camp.

The Steelers have also made key adjustments to their run game, aiming to support Rodgers and contribute to a more balanced offensive approach. After parting ways with Najee Harris, the team brought in fresh, young talent by drafting running back Kaleb Johnson, a promising addition who could make a big impact and help establish a strong ground game alongside the passing game. 


The Steelers Are Going To Be An Exciting Team To Watch

With all of the new additions the Steelers have made this offseason, one thing is certain, that the upcoming season will be full of excitement, no matter how it unfolds. The arrival of big players like Rodgers, who has publicly said that this could be his final year in the NFL, adds even more anticipation to an already eventful offseason. His potential farewell tour brings added attention and urgency to the team’s performance. 

There’s no doubt that expectations are high, and the pressure to succeed is very real. Everyone will be watching closely to see how this new group of talented players gels on the field, and whether they can turn all of this potential into a playoff run.


Do you agree with Bettis and his remarks about Rodgers? Comment below!

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