Aaron Rodgers Exposed Why Steelers WRs And TEs Are Struggling: "Gotta Get Open"

The Pittsburgh Steelers' offense has been struggling for several seasons now. In the 2025 campaign, there was some hope that Aaron Rodgers would be able to lift this group, bringing his veteran experience and elite passing ability to a unit desperate for consistency. The concern, however, is that Rodgers is 41 years old, and while he has shown flashes of brilliance, his age has become evident through the first three games. 

Compounding the issue, the offensive line has struggled to provide him with the time needed to operate effectively in the pocket, limiting opportunities for wide receivers and tight ends to get downfield and make plays. Many pundits believed this Steelers tight end room, featuring Jonnu Smith, Pat Freiermuth, and Darnell Washington, would be a real strength. Additionally, DK Metcalf was expected to lead the wide receiver room, with Calvin Austin III providing support. However, outside of those two receivers, many feel Rodgers doesn’t have enough help at wide receiver.

On Wednesday, Chris Adamski asked Rodgers about his tight ends and wide receivers’ lack of production through the first three weeks of the season. Rodgers did not hold back, explaining that multiple factors have contributed to their struggles. He noted that it’s not just a matter of talent or effort; timing, communication, and protection from the offensive line all play critical roles in allowing his targets to succeed. 

"Yeah I mean we only threw the ball 23 times, 24, I ran the ball one time," Rodgers said while speaking to the Pittsburgh media on Wednesday. "You know we had no sacks, but I had to do some throwaways. We didn’t have enough guys open at times. We gotta get open. I gotta make the plays that are there and we gotta convert on third down to keep us on the field."

According to Rodgers, when the line falters or the routes are disrupted, it becomes nearly impossible for receivers and tight ends to find space and consistently make plays. The Steelers' offense is averaging just 262.3 yards per game, which is far from impressive when compared to the 399.7 yards per game their opponents are averaging.

Rodgers’ candor highlighted that this is a systemic issue rather than a matter of one player underperforming. The Steelers’ skill players are capable, but the lack of cohesion and consistent support from the line has hindered their ability to produce at a high level. Rodgers emphasized that improvement requires a collective effort, from better protection upfront to sharper execution from the skill players. He even made sure to put blame on himself as well. 

Steelers' Offense Looking Decent, But Waiting To Explode

If the Steelers can address these factors, there is hope that their offense could finally reach the level fans have been waiting for, even with a quarterback in the later stages of his career. It’s also encouraging for Steelers fans to hear Rodgers take some responsibility onto his own shoulders. He’s clearly trying to honestly explain why the offense has struggled at times. 

That said, there are noticeable improvements with Rodgers in town. For starters, the team is executing much better in the red zone—a credit to Rodgers, who has seen a lot of football and knows how to make plays when it matters most. Steelers fans would love to see Metcalf, Freiermuth, and Smith getting more targets. Austin has once again been a nice playmaker for the Steelers.

Why do you believe the offensive production hasn't been there for this Steelers' offense? 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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