The Pittsburgh Steelers once again got humiliated during a road divisional game on Thursday Night Football. This time, their big-time defense got absolutely humbled by the 2-4 Cincinnati Bengals. Starting in the second quarter, the game completely unraveled as Pittsburgh could only keep Cincinnati from scoring once. While the offense was good for the most part, two big turnovers in the second quarter helped turn the tide. All in all, it was a very aggravating day that the team has to learn from if it wants to make the playoffs.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Jalen Ramsey during a loss to the Cincinnati Bengals on the road in the 2025 season.
Even when the Steelers were scoring, there were some frustrations around some questionable moves. Late in the fourth quarter, quarterback Aaron Rodgers connected with Pat Freiermuth on a 68-yard touchdown pass to give Pittsburgh the lead. It was a very exciting play, and it showed in the players' reactions. However, one seemed to be a little too excited.
In the process, big left tackle Broderick Jones came over to celebrate with his quarterback. Instead, he accidentally tackled Rodgers on the sideline. The quarterback responded by yelling at him and shoving him, as he was visibly angry about the whole thing. He turned and walked away right after the shove.
Aaron Rodgers was NOT happy getting tackled from behind by his 300 lb OT pic.twitter.com/lTA3XmXWYu
— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) October 17, 2025
Jones is still a young player. He's been developing well in 2025 and has even received some praise from Rodgers. However, Rodgers is still the oldest player in the league and doesn't prefer physical contact. You can't get aggressive with him in celebration like rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart does with the New York Giants. There are plenty of other ways to celebrate besides pulling your passer down to the ground in a game that is not over yet.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers offensive lineman Broderick Jones (77) during 2025 training camp in Latrobe, PA.
It wouldn't be surprising for Rodgers to go up to Jones later on and let him know a little more nicely that he can't do that. Rodgers has always been very particular about things, and he will not hesitate to yell at someone for doing something he hates. It's rare to see that for a celebration, but that's what happened here. Don't tackle your own quarterback, especially in a game you'll eventually lose.
Steelers Should Continue To See Growth From Broderick Jones
Overall, Jones did his part in keeping Rodgers upright, besides that celebration, of course. He has been improving with each passing week. This time, however, the Steelers did not use the quick passing game all day long. There were many times where the 41-year-old would go back to vintage form by hanging in the pocket or rolling out to buy a little more time before making a big time throw.
Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers prepares to throw downfield vs the Seattle Seahawks.
Rodgers seemed to have some pressure come off from the right side, so that needs to improve. Jones, however, has been improving. If he keeps this up, he could become a top 10 blindside blocker by the end of the year. The Steelers are finally getting a big return on their 2023 first-round selection. As long as he stops tackling his passer, he should be ok.
What do you think about Rodgers getting angry at Jones? Let us know in the comments or on X at @Steelers_ChrisB.
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