Former NFL GM Just Exposed The Steelers' Greatest Advantage In 2025 (Steelers News)
Steelers News

Former NFL GM Just Exposed The Steelers' Greatest Advantage In 2025

Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
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The Pittsburgh Steelers have been in a difficult spot offensively since the day Ben Roethlisberger retired. After his departure, the team leaned on a young offense led by Kenny Pickett, trying to find a new identity under a quarterback still developing his skills. Even former running back Najee Harris has spoken about how the lack of leadership in those early years made things challenging, noting that the team often struggled to maintain consistency and confidence without a true veteran presence guiding the offense.

Steelers Kenny Pickett and Najee Harris

Benjamin B. Braun / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Former Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett communicates with running back Najee Harris in practice.

Through the first four games of the 2025 season, Aaron Rodgers has lived up to the hype, delivering efficient play, demonstrating high football IQ, and providing the leadership the Steelers had been missing. His ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and keep teammates focused has already transformed the offense, giving Pittsburgh a sense of stability that was absent in recent years. Rodgers’ presence has allowed younger players to grow within a system that now benefits from his experience and football knowledge.

Former NFL GM Doug Whaley went on 93.7 The Fan on Wednesday to highlight just how significant Rodgers’ leadership has been for the Steelers in 2025. Whaley emphasized that having a quarterback of Rodgers’ caliber not only improves the passing game, but also elevates the entire offense and the locker room culture. According to Whaley, Rodgers’ leadership gives the Steelers a unique advantage that could define their season and separate them from other teams in the league.

"I think the biggest difference that no one is talking about, Aaron Rodgers and his leadership," Whaley said while speaking on 93.7 The Fan. "When he wasn't there, there was no leader in the locker room. There was some leaders that led by example on the field in their play, like a Cam Heyward and TJ Watt. But someone to galvanize that locker room and to walk in and say, 'We're about to play Cincinnati and then Cleveland, we do not lose, we do not take our foot off the gas pedal. We do not take these guys for granted any given Sunday.' And that's the type of stuff that Aaron Rogers is going to bring to that locker room."

When Rodgers was first revealed to have mutual interest in joining the Steelers, many fans were upset, fearing he might be a distraction or a poor teammate. 

Steelers Aaron Rodgers

Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)

Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) during 2025 training camp in Latrobe, PA.

So far, it has been the complete opposite. Rodgers’ leadership has lifted the team and could continue to do so as the 2025 season progresses.

"He's gonna hold people accountable and set the standard where they're like, 'I don't care. We aren't gonna do it.' And that's what he's bringing," Whaley said. "I didn't put enough emphasis or thought process into that part of what he brought to the team, and it's showing now. And that's why I have a strong belief that the Steelers have a chance to do some stuff if they stay healthy."

The Steelers had Russell Wilson in town for the 2024 season. He was an excellent leader, but it often felt like his play on the field didn’t give teammates the confidence to fully rally behind him.


Aaron Rodgers Can Lead The Steelers To The Super Bowl

To be a true leader, you also have to inspire confidence in your offense. Wilson didn’t perform poorly, but it’s different when leadership comes from a player with Rodgers’ pedigree, even at 41 years old.

Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers and wide receiver DK Metcalf smile as they talk during training camp in Latrobe, PA.

Gene J. Puskar / AP Photo

Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers and wide receiver DK Metcalf smile as they talk during training camp in Latrobe, PA.

The Steelers don’t just have a leader now. Rodgers is proving it with his play on the field, showing that his presence elevates the entire team. If Rodgers can stay healthy, he may have just enough left in the tank to take this Steelers team on a deep run.


Do you agree with Doug Whaley about Aaron Rodgers' leadership being the Steelers' greatest advantage in the 2025 season? Why or why not? 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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