Steelers' Arthur Smith Has Offensive Game Plan Called Out By Aaron Rodgers

The Pittsburgh Steelers put forth the team's worst performance of the 2025 season as the group lost to the Los Angeles Chargers by a score of 25-10 on Sunday Night Football. The offense for the Steelers was completely dormant throughout the entire night, and the unit turned the ball over twice with two interceptions from quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Pittsburgh could not move the chains on a consistent basis and the team's first touchdown did not come until late in the fourth quarter when the game was out of reach. There were few bright spots in the game, but one was running back Jaylen Warren.

Pittsburgh had some guys making plays on the defensive side of the ball in the loss, but the only player who really showed up for the offense was Warren. He put up a good performance on the ground while also being effective in the passing game. 

The back finished with just 91 total yards on 16 touches, but there were countless snaps where he made something out of nothing. Rodgers spoke to the media after the game, and he seemed disappointed with the offensive performance, but he highlighted Warren's play, while also sending a message to the coaching staff about the ball-carrier's prowess.

"You know, Jaylen made some really nice plays." Rodgers said. "He's a talented guy. We got to get him more touches."

Warren has had double-digit carries and at least two receptions in every game for the Steelers, but Rodgers wants to see the offense get Warren more involved. He carried the ball 14 times for 70 yards while catching two passes for 21 yards in the loss, and it is clear the quarterback believes Warren needs to be a larger part of the game plan moving forward.

The fourth-year running back has been a real gem for Pittsburgh, and he needs more opportunities to make plays. This is his first year as the lead back after Najee Harris left the team during the 2025 offseason, but his workload has not seemed to increase too much. Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith needs to find more ways to get him involved, even if that just means running the ball more.

Pittsburgh could not find anything on offense aside from going to Warren, yet he only touched the ball 16 times on the team's 50 plays. Playing from behind plays a role in that, but he needs to be a featured part of the offense to begin every game. Former quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has also questioned Warren's usage recently, and it is a common theme for people to want to see him more involved.

The Steelers were down 15-3 to begin the fourth quarter, and Pittsburgh was driving. Warren did a lot of work on the possession, and the Steelers got the ball down to the 10-yard line with a second and six. 

The Steelers proceeded to throw the ball three straight times and turn the ball over on downs. In that scenario, Warren needs to carry the ball at least once on second or third down, especially with how things were going on the drive. That was really where Pittsburgh's chances in the game took a hit.

Steelers' Warren Has Separated Himself From The Rest Of The Running Back Room

Near the start of the 2025 season, the Steelers were utilizing running back Kenneth Gainwell way more than they are now, and a part of that is because of Warren's play. The fourth-year player is clearly the best back in the room; he just needs more chances to make plays. He is the biggest spark on Pittsburgh's offense and he should be treated as such, especially when Rodgers is not playing well.

What do you think about Rodgers' comments? Let us know in the comments below!

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