Steelers' Cam Heyward Makes Honest Opinion Known After Aaron Rodgers' First Game In 2025

The Pittsburgh Steelers had the national media and pundits perplexed about what Aaron Rodgers would look like in 2025. Well, in Week 1, Rodgers turned back the clock with a vintage showing. He completed 22 of his 30 passes for 244 yards and threw four touchdown passes without a single interception. It was a masterclass performance from Rodgers and a major factor in Pittsburgh’s 34-32 victory. For a team that has often relied on its defense in recent seasons, it was a refreshing change to see the offense take control. However, the fan base didn't like seeing the defense get crushed.

In seasons past, the Steelers’ defense has carried the team on Sundays, keeping Pittsburgh competitive even when the offense struggled. On this day, the roles seemed reversed. Rodgers’ accuracy and poise allowed the offense to dominate key moments of the game, giving the defense a chance to play complementary football. The result was a somewhat balanced team effort that led to a thrilling win in a close matchup.

Steelers defensive lineman Cam Heyward spoke to the media after the game and expressed his excitement about how Rodgers played. Heyward highlighted that Rodgers’ performance energized the team and showed what the offense could accomplish when firing on all cylinders. The Week 1 showing offered a glimpse of what the Steelers might be capable of this season when both sides of the ball are operating at a high level.

"Man, we got a freaking quarterback who can sling the ball around and deliver," Heyward said while speaking to Mark Kaboly and the Pittsburgh media after beating the Jets in Week 1. "I know everybody asked what our quarterback was going to be this year. Man, he was special today. I am happy he is on our side."

The trick here is that both sides must play complementary football, including special teams. The Steelers’ special teams unit made a massive play that helped set up Rodgers’ fourth touchdown pass. 

Heyward acknowledged that the defense did not perform as many had hoped, but after years of carrying the team, they can now rest assured knowing Rodgers and the offense can pick up the slack when needed.

"We have played against each other before," Heyward said. "He has always diced us up. It was really fun to watch him dice up other people."

Rodgers did far more than any Steelers fan expected. In a game where the total was set at 37.5, walking away with four passing touchdowns and a 34-32 win was thrilling. Steelers fans have not seen their offense look this sharp in quite some time. Sure, there were flashes with Russell Wilson in 2024, but nothing as smooth, efficient, or controlled as what Rodgers displayed in Week 1.

Steelers' Rodgers Put The Team On His Back

Rodgers controlled the game when it mattered most. He did not flinch under pressure and consistently hit his targets at critical moments. It was a tremendous showing by the offense, while the defense struggled for much of the game. However, the defense came to life when it mattered most, making a key stop that preserved the win.

That balance is something Head Coach Mike Tomlin can build on as the Steelers address their defensive woes before Week 2 at home against the Seattle Seahawks. With Rodgers leading the offense, the team now has a clear path to lean on when the defense faces challenges, giving Pittsburgh fans hope for a more balanced and competitive season.

What grade would you give Aaron Rodgers after the Week 1 win over the New York Jets? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me.

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