The Pittsburgh Steelers have generated plenty of talk this offseason after changing their roster and bringing in a bunch of new faces. While many fans are hopeful about the impact these new additions could have, there’s also been plenty of discussion about what the Steelers gave up to make it happen. However, off the field, questions still linger about locker room dynamics, with concerns about previous personalities and uncertainty about how some of the new players will mesh with the team's culture.
Sebastian Foltz / Post-Gazette
Steelers' Mike Tomlin coaching up his team during the 2025 Organized Team Activities.
Recently, Steelers insider Mark Kaboly appeared on 93.7 The Fan and brought up the same concern. While much of the conversation during the offseason has focused on players' on-field talent, locker room chemistry and personality often get overlooked. Kaboly acknowledged this trend and posed a question of his own.
"But the question is, is why do they keep getting to a point where they have to clean up?" Kaboly asked.
The Steelers have faced their recent share of locker room challenges involving several notable players, with one of the more notable examples being former Steelers wide receiver, George Pickens. Pickens was the number one guy out on the field during his time in Pittsburgh, known for his passion and playmaking ability.
However, the decision to trade him earlier this offseason has raised questions, with reports suggesting maturity issues may have played a role. During his time in Pittsburgh, Pickens was often criticized for a lack of professionalism, as he was frequently being late, displaying poor sportsmanship, and drawing unnecessary penalties due to emotional outbursts.
Another relatively recent player who stirred locker room concerns was wide receiver Diontae Johnson. Like Pickens, Johnson was traded by the Steelers following reports of internal issues. Since then, he's bounced between several teams, with rumors of similar problems continuing to follow him. One of the most talked-about incidents didn’t even happen during his time in Pittsburgh, but rather with the Steelers’ division rivals, the Baltimore Ravens, where Johnson reportedly refused to enter during a game, which only raised more concerns about his attitude and professionalism.
-544x306.jpg "Steelers Mike Tomlin George Pickens Diontae Johnson")
Steelers.com
Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin talks with former receivers George Pickens (#14) and Diontae Johnson (#18) after repeated taunting calls against the Los Angeles Rams.
New concerns have surfaced about a recent addition to the team. In a trade that sent former Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick back to the Miami Dolphins, the Steelers received tight end Jonnu Smith and cornerback Jalen Ramsey. Both players are top talents and bring valuable experience and versatility, which has created a lot of excitement. However, there are worries that one of them could bring new locker room challenges.
In a recent interview, Smith acknowledged that there were locker room problems in Miami, but didn’t mention any specific names. Shortly after, reports surfaced suggesting that Ramsey was involved in those issues. Naturally, this raised some concerns and left many hoping that any locker room problems remain resolved moving forward.
The Steelers also have a well-known player surrounded by rumors and baggage, veteran quarterback and likely future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers. There have been reports labeling Rodgers as a bad teammate and selfish player for many years now. However, none of that seems to match the person currently in Pittsburgh. Of course, it’s still the offseason and everything looks positive for now, and the real test will come when challenges arise. For now though, Rodgers appears genuinely excited about his time with the team.
The Steelers Have Strong Potential In 2025
With all the changes the Steelers have made this offseason, the roster definitely looks stronger on paper, but it’s still too early to tell how it will perform. The talent and skills are certainly there, but the locker room atmosphere and player personalities are just as important. The whole team is putting in the effort, yet it’s hard to be taken seriously with concerns about locker room issues hanging over them.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers huddle in a circle and pray together before a game in 2024.
It’s hard to pinpoint exactly why these issues keep happening, as there could be so many different factors involved. However, fans definitely want this trend to stop, especially since it seems like most other teams don’t face the same problems or have a similar history.
Do you think the issues in the locker room are done for now? Why do you think these issues keep coming up? Let us know in the comments below!
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