The Pittsburgh Steelers went into MetLife Stadium to face one of their former quarterbacks from the 2024 season, Justin Fields. Fields had left in free agency to join the New York Jets, while the Steelers had acquired Aaron Rodgers to lead their offense. The storylines were rampant heading into this Week 1 matchup, with fans eager to see how Rodgers would fare against his former peers and whether Fields could make an immediate impact with his new team. In the end, it was the Steelers who came out on top, edging the Jets 34-32 in a thrilling opener.
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Steelers' Aaron Rodgers looks to pass during a win over the New York Jets during the 2025 season.
Rodgers looked every bit the MVP-caliber quarterback the Steelers hoped he would be, delivering a performance that turned back the clock and provided a much-needed spark for the offense. However, the game was not without its concerns. Left tackle Broderick Jones struggled in pass protection, allowing three sacks that highlighted potential vulnerabilities along the offensive line. Meanwhile, the running game showed no flashes of promise and still lacked consistency, as the Steelers struggled to establish dominance on the ground.
Defensively, Pittsburgh faced its own set of challenges. The Steelers had difficulty stopping the Jets’ rushing attack, raising questions about run defense early in the season. Jalen Ramsey, however, continued to shine, proving that he remains a superstar in the secondary. On the offensive side, the running back trio of Kaleb Johnson, Jaylen Warren, and Kenneth Gainwell showed effort, but must improve quickly if the Steelers hope to maintain balance in their attack. Overall, while the win was encouraging, there are clear areas for improvement as Pittsburgh looks ahead to Week 2.
1.) The Steelers' Run Game Is Awful
Remember, these are overreactions because it’s only Week 1, far too early to sound any real alarms. That said, the Steelers’ running game is already a concern. Ben Roethlisberger and fans alike have warned about it all offseason, and it showed against the Jets, averaging just 2.7 yards per carry. If Warren, Johnson, and Gainwell do not improve quickly, relying on Rodgers alone will not be enough to win games this season.
2.) Steelers' Jalen Ramsey Is An All-Pro
The Steelers made the move to part ways with Minkah Fitzpatrick in order to bring in Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith. Both players made their impact felt in Week 1, but it was Ramsey who stole the show, especially dominating on the final defensive drive of the game.
ESPN
Steelers' Jalen Ramsey makes a bone crushing hit on Jets' Garrett Wilson to help win Week 1 against New York.
Without Ramsey, the Steelers likely do not get this win. The overreaction here is that one game does not make you an All-Pro, but if Ramsey’s play continues and he can stay healthy, look out AFC North.
3.) The Steelers' Defense Is Outdated
Several players have stated that the Steelers defensive schemes have been the same for the last decade and that they have not changed. Even Roethlisberger mentioned it on his podcast on Tuesday. The Steelers' defense gave up 394 yards of offense to the Jets, which is concerning, especially for one of the highest-paid defensive units in the NFL. Steelers fans are hopeful for quick adjustments. The talent is there, but can this highly compensated unit execute?
4.) Aaron Rodgers Is An MVP Candidate
Rodgers went 22 of 30, throwing for four touchdowns and passing for 244 yards. He had no interceptions and did all of that while getting little help from his offensive line. Rodgers got the ball out quickly and made great decisions, finding easy touchdowns. If Rodgers plays like that every game, he could win his fifth MVP. That is a big if and will not be easy for a 41-year-old quarterback, however.
5.) Broderick Jones Is A Bust?
The Steelers moved Jones from right tackle to his natural position at left tackle. There has been a lot of criticism about Jones, and his performance against the Jets added to the concern. He allowed three sacks and four pressures.
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Steelers offensive lineman Broderick Jones (77) during 2025 training camp in Latrobe, PA.
This is his third year now; if not now, then when? Jones is going to put Rodgers at risk if he cannot figure it out. It is early and he can improve, but we are officially on Andrus Peat watch.
What are your greatest overreactions after the Steelers' Week 1 34-32 victory 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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