The Pittsburgh Steelers have made some of the boldest moves of the 2025 offseason, and the ripple effects will hit both the NFL landscape and the fantasy football community. By adding quarterback Aaron Rodgers, wide receiver D.K. Metcalf, cornerback Jalen Ramsey, and running back Kenneth Gainwell, the Steelers have sent a clear message that they intend to win now. For fantasy players, these acquisitions create new dynamics that will influence draft tiers, sleeper values, and NFL fantasy draft strategies. Below is a breakdown of how each signing could reshape the fantasy outlook in 2025.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers cornerback Jalen Ramsey looks on as the team gets some work in during a 2025 training camp practice that was held at St. Vincent College in Latrobe, PA.
Aaron Rodgers Joins Pittsburgh
Rodgers arriving in Pittsburgh is more than just a roster move—it is a shift in offensive philosophy. With a Hall of Fame résumé that includes four NFL MVP Awards, over 59,000 career passing yards, and more than 475 passing touchdowns, Rodgers brings elite experience and immediate leadership to the Steelers offense.
Fantasy managers will debate Rodgers’ draft position. At 41 years old, durability and consistency become key questions, but his track record of finishing as a top 10 fantasy quarterback multiple times keeps him in contention as a mid-tier QB1 option.
D.K. Metcalf’s Explosive Presence
The Steelers landing D.K. Metcalf gives them a true deep-ball threat. Metcalf’s 2023 season saw him record over 1,100 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns, proving he remains among the league’s most physically dominant wide receivers.
For fantasy purposes, Metcalf sits firmly in the WR1 tier. Rodgers’ arm strength combined with Metcalf’s speed could elevate his ceiling to double-digit touchdowns and 1,200+ receiving yards in 2025. He is a second-round fantasy lock in standard and PPR leagues.
Jalen Ramsey Bolsters the Defense
Though cornerbacks do not directly influence offensive fantasy stats, Jalen Ramsey’s addition impacts overall game flow. Ramsey is a six-time Pro Bowl selection, a three-time First-Team All-Pro, and a Super Bowl champion. His lockdown ability will give the Steelers defense more opportunities to control the clock and put the offense in favorable situations.
Fantasy managers who draft team defenses will see Pittsburgh climb into top five projections. Ramsey’s presence can lead to more turnovers, and defensive stability translates into better opportunities for Rodgers and company to dominate possession.
Kenneth Gainwell’s Opportunity
The signing of Kenneth Gainwell brings another layer of intrigue. While not the flashiest name, Gainwell’s role as a versatile backfield weapon—he logged over 500 total yards in 2023 despite being in a crowded backfield—gives him sleeper appeal in fantasy.
Gainwell will not be drafted as an RB1 or RB2, but his receiving skills make him an intriguing late-round addition. In deeper leagues or PPR formats, he could deliver value as a flex option, especially if Pittsburgh’s offensive line provides him space to work in the passing game.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell (14) during 2025 training camp in Latrobe, PA.
Value Picks
The Steelers are set to be between not knowing to start a rebuilding process or have a win now mentality. These four additions will collectively alter the way managers approach their NFL fantasy draft boards. Rodgers boosts the value of Pittsburgh pass-catchers, Metcalf emerges as a second-round star, Gainwell sneaks into the sleeper tier, and Ramsey raises the defense’s overall appeal.
Fantasy players will need to shift their strategies, particularly when looking at stacking Rodgers with Metcalf. The Rodgers-Metcalf connection could become one of the most valuable QB-WR duos available outside the first round.
Rodgers’ Effect on Passing Game Volume
Rodgers historically averages over 500 pass attempts per season. With Metcalf as a top option, fantasy managers can expect Pittsburgh to lean heavier on the passing game than in recent years, reshaping positional draft values for Steelers players.
Rodgers’ arrival not only boosts Metcalf but also benefits secondary receivers. Expect WR2 and WR3 roles in Pittsburgh to see more targets, giving deeper-league fantasy managers extra options.
Metcalf’s Ceiling in 2025
Metcalf enters a system where he will be Rodgers’ go-to option. His ability to create separation and dominate contested catches makes him one of the top breakout candidates for the season.
Metcalf already has seasons with 10+ touchdowns on his résumé, and Rodgers’ accuracy inside the red zone will maximize those opportunities. Fantasy owners can expect significant red zone production from this pairing.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf (4) during 2025 training camp in Latrobe, PA.
Kenneth Gainwell’s Flex Potential
Gainwell may not carry the workload of a traditional RB1, but his skill set ensures consistent touches in creative schemes. The Steelers can line him up as both a runner and a pass-catcher.
Fantasy owners can deploy Gainwell based on weekly matchups, especially against defenses vulnerable to pass-catching backs. His upside lies in being a flexible bench piece that could deliver big weeks.
Jalen Ramsey’s Defensive Spark
Ramsey’s addition stabilizes the Steelers secondary, which struggled in recent years. With Ramsey patrolling the field, opponents will be forced into riskier throws.
For fantasy managers drafting defenses, turnovers are gold. Ramsey’s coverage ability increases interception chances, boosting Pittsburgh’s defense into must-draft territory.
The Steelers’ Fantasy Outlook in 2025
The Steelers’ bold acquisitions make them one of the most fantasy-relevant teams heading into the 2025 season. Rodgers, Metcalf, Gainwell, and Ramsey bring value across multiple fantasy positions, from QB and WR to RB depth and team defense.
Savvy fantasy managers should evaluate stacking opportunities, value tiers, and late-round sleepers with Pittsburgh players. Whether drafting Rodgers as a mid-tier QB1, targeting Metcalf as a WR1, or stashing Gainwell as a flex sleeper, the Steelers are set to influence fantasy football in a major way this season.
