The Pittsburgh Steelers have dealt with a fair share of scrutiny throughout this offseason, with plenty of outside noise and speculation surrounding the major roster changes and bold decisions the team has made. From analysts to fans, opinions have been flying about the direction of the organization. However, what’s more surprising now is that some of the noise isn’t just coming from the outside, as it appears to be emerging from voices much closer to the team itself.
Taylor Ollason / Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin practices at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex during the 2025 minicamp, Wednesday June 11, 2025.
Recently, Patrick Rooney Jr., the first cousin of Steelers President and Owner Art Rooney II, made an appearance on the PBKC Live! podcast to discuss a range of Steelers-related topics. Although Rooney Jr. doesn't hold an official role within the organization, his last name certainly carries influence and draws attention. While he didn’t make any outright negative comments, his perspective wasn’t exactly glowing either. In fact, he candidly shared what he believes is the core issue facing the Steelers and expressed some skepticism about the team's outlook for the upcoming season.
"The problems with the Steelers are offensively; the person that we brought in to fix that, at least to some capacity, is Aaron Rodgers," Rooney said. "If he can stay healthy, we might be a little bit better offensively, And then maybe we'll win a playoff game, I don't know. I think that's their goal now, is to win a playoff game. Not a Super Bowl."
It’s definitely disheartening to hear, especially considering that winning a Super Bowl is the ultimate goal for every team. The comments hit even harder when you factor in the Steelers’ recent playoff track record. While the team has managed to reach the postseason several times in recent years, success once they get there has been limited. In fact, their last playoff victory came back in January 2017. So while making the playoffs hasn’t been the issue, advancing once they’re in has proven to be the real challenge, and is reflected in Rooney Jr. comments.
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Steelers' Russell Wilson fumbles against the Baltimore Ravens.
After another difficult first round playoff exit last season, the Steelers responded by making major changes aimed to strengthen the roster. On paper, the team looks significantly improved, with several top talent veterans added on both offense and defense. One of the most talked about and significant moves was the acquisition of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The future Hall of Famer is entering what is likely his final NFL season with something to prove and the Steelers do as well.
Like many of the Steelers' recent moves, the addition of Rodgers comes with its share of concerns. The biggest concern is his age, as at 41 Rodgers is currently the oldest active player in the league. There's been a lot of concern about whether he can stay healthy and play through all 17 games of the season, a concern that seems to be shared by Rooney Jr. as well.
"This whole season depends on if Aaron Rodgers can somehow stay upright for 17 games and do something from an offensive capacity," Rooney continued.
While this is certainly a valid concern, it's one that could apply to any quarterback in the league. That said, the Steelers have made a clear effort to surround Rodgers with more offensive weapons to support him. The additions of new wide receivers, tight ends, and running backs are all aimed at creating more overall offensive production. It’s a strategy that has many fans excited to see how this new looking team will perform once the regular season starts.
Philip G. Pavely / Imagn / Reuters
Steelers' quarterback Aaron Rodgers making a throw during mini camp.
The Steelers Have A Lot To Prove
These new additions bring with them the pressure to perform at a high level. With a different roster, the team’s dynamic and style have changed from recent years. While this new approach is definitely exciting, it also raises the stakes. This season, there’s not just the expectation to play well, but also a lot of pressure to win a playoff game. With key players like Rodgers, who is likely in the final year of his Hall of Fame career, the Steelers are under even more urgency to deliver a win in the post season.
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