The Pittsburgh Steelers were lucky enough to walk out of Acrisure Stadium as AFC North champions. After a disappointing 2024 season where the division slipped through their fingers, the 2025 campaign brought a renewed sense of purpose. With a revamped roster and a veteran presence in quarterback Aaron Rodgers, now 42 years old, the Steelers approached their must-win games with determination and poise.
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Steelers pass rusher TJ Watt talks with long-time defensive leader Cameron Heyward as the two enjoy a day off during a 2025 training camp practice at St. Vincent College in Latrobe, PA..
Their effort culminated in a thrilling 26-24 victory over the Baltimore Ravens, a win that not only secured bragging rights in the division, but also punched their ticket to the playoffs. The Steelers now have a date with the Houston Texans, at home, on Monday night. This game clearly meant a lot to the Steelers, and they feel very thankful to finish the 2025 regular season with a ticket to the postseason.
Following the victory, superstar pass rusher TJ Watt met with the media donning his AFC North champions hat and T-shirt. The defensive leader couldn’t resist poking fun at fellow veteran Cam Heyward’s age, joking about how the seasoned veteran helped fuel the team to victory. Watt’s charisma and energy were on full display as he detailed how Heyward motivated and inspired the team in the days leading up to the must-win game.
"He is just always around the football, man," Watt said while speaking to the Pittsburgh media after the win. "A defensive tackle at 45 years old is just incredible. Just awesome to have as a teammate, honestly, just the leadership. Gave a great speech last night. Gave a great speech today. It’s important to win, and there's certain people you want to deliver wins for. He's definitely one of those guys. I know he might not be able to fit the hat, but I’m excited that he’s got one."
Heyward is now 36 years old, and season after season, the NFL world seemingly writes him off, assuming Father Time will catch him. However, Heyward turned in an All-Pro season in 2024, and in 2025, he’s been just as good, if not better. He played like a man who refused to lose on Sunday night, and it was clear that whatever he said to his teammates inspired them and kept them locked in during this must-win game.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' Mike Tomlin stands next to captains Aaron Rodgers and Cam Heyward before the 2025 season opener.
For Head Coach Mike Tomlin, the triumph represented more than just another win. It was a statement that the Steelers could still compete at the highest level, blending veteran leadership with young talent to overcome challenges.
Rodgers’ poise under center, Heyward's fiery leadership, and the team’s collective grit all combined to deliver a season-defining victory. As the playoffs loom, Pittsburgh enters the postseason with confidence, swagger, and a renewed belief that they can contend for a championship once again.
Steelers Have A Lot Of Reasons To Go All The Way In The 2025 Season
This could possibly be Rodgers’ last year. Talks about Tomlin and a mutual parting of ways are starting to heat up, as more and more insiders report that he’s considering his options. Then there’s the fact that Heyward and Watt haven’t had much meaningful playoff success in their iconic careers.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers' defensive linemen Cam Heyward with quarterback Aaron Rodgers during a training camp practice in Latrobe, PA during the 2025 offseason.
For Heyward, he clearly understands that the time is now, and he’s not taking the moment for granted, and neither are his teammates. This season could be a defining chapter for both the veterans and the team as a whole.
What is the ceiling for this Steelers team now that they’ve made the playoffs? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me. I will respond!
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