"We're Giving You Weapons": Steelers Great Ben Roethlisberger Sends Direct Message To Aaron Rodgers

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been having a very fun offseason to say the least. They have been making lots of big moves, each with seemingly low risk. The team gave Jamel Dean a three-year deal with an out in 2027, and they also upgraded from Kenneth Gainwell by bringing in Rico Dowdle. There have also been some under-the-radar moves, such as Sebastian Joseph-Day and Brock Hoffman, to add depth to the trenches. The team clearly wants to win now, but they can't do that without a reliable starting quarterback. They're still waiting on Aaron Rodgers' decision regarding his future. One of the Steelers' recent moves may actually have been a direct hint to Rodgers regarding how the team feels about him.

Earlier this month, the team traded for star Indianapolis Colts wide receiver, Michael Pittman Jr. The trade came at a cost of a sixth-round pick in exchange for the Colts' seventh-round pick. In retrospect, the Steelers moved down just 20 spots on Day 3 of the draft for Pittman. He gives the Steelers some much-needed talent on their offense and will be a very nice complement to star receiver, DK Metcalf.  

While Rodgers still waits to make a decision, it may have become a lot easier for him with the Pittman trade. He won't have to rely solely on Metcalf making explosive plays at the wide receiver position. In fact, Steelers legendary quarterback Ben Roethlisberger recently appeared on the Deebo & Joe podcast, where they discussed the Steelers and their exciting offseason -- including the Pittman acquisition. Roethlisberger believes the Pittman move speaks directly to Rodgers, telling him to come back for one more season.

"I love the Pittman pickup," Roethlisberger states. "I think it's something that screams, 'Hey, Aaron Rodgers, come on. We're giving you these weapons.'" 

Rodgers had a solid 2025 overall, but there were times where fans could clearly notice the offense was struggling to move the ball in critical situations. His wide receiver two (WR2) was Calvin Austin III, who when healthy, showed promising signs as a young receiver. However, Austin struggled with injuries throughout the year and his play was inconsistent. With Mike McCarthy now leading the team, the Steelers are expected to add at least two more receivers as his scheme demands three starting-caliber receivers in his West Coast offense. While the offensive line may still have questions, there should be none about the wide receiver room in 2026. Rodgers should have more than enough to work with, while also still having great tight ends.

With Pat Freiermuth still in the fold after being criminally underused in 2025, and Darnell Washington coming off a  breakout season, Rodgers could potentially have one of his more rounded receiving corps. The team still lacks a slot receiver with reliable run-after-catch ability, but that's most likely going to come in the upcoming NFL Draft. A guy like KC Concepcion would fit very nicely with what the team currently has. Or even a guy like Denzel Boston, and moving Pittman to the slot.

Steelers Also Need To Sure Up The Offensive Line Now

Over the last few years, the Steelers have been building the trenches with their top draft picks, using their last three first-round picks on linemen. While that has definitely been paying off, there is still work to be done on the offensive line. Their starting left side, as it currently stands, is Dylan Cook at left tackle and either Spencer Anderson or Hoffman at left guard. Cook may have played himself into a full season as the starter, but the left guard spot needs a certified starter. Broderick Jones' major neck injury from last season also leaves a big question mark about his availability to start the 2026 season.

Do you think the Pittman move sent a clear message to Rodgers? Follow us for more news!

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