The Steelers’ Path Forward: No to Rodgers, Yes to Rudolph or Howard, and Pay T.J. Watt - Draft Class Break Down and Schedule Predictions.
- Fresh Off the Clock Sports
- May 31
- 5 min read
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, the Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves at a critical turning point. Fresh off a rollercoaster 2024 campaign that ended with flashes of promise, the franchise faces major decisions about its future—particularly at quarterback, where rumors are swirling about a possible pursuit of Aaron Rodgers. But make no mistake: bringing Rodgers to Pittsburgh would be a mistake rooted in nostalgia, not strategy.
No Room for Rodgers: Age and Distractions
Aaron Rodgers will turn 42 this season. While he made a full return in 2024 after recovering from a torn Achilles, his performance showed signs of decline. The arm talent is still there, but the mobility, play extension, and week-to-week consistency that defined his prime are fading. He’s no longer a long-term solution—just a temporary patch for a team that should be investing in its future.
Even setting the on-field concerns aside, Rodgers’ off-field persona brings unnecessary noise. From media controversies to polarizing statements, he’s been a constant distraction in New York. The Steelers are a franchise rooted in stability and discipline. The last thing Mike Tomlin needs is a quarterback who stirs headlines for the wrong reasons.
Start Mason Rudolph or Develop Will Howard
The Steelers have two in-house quarterback options that deserve a real shot—Mason Rudolph and rookie Will Howard.
Rudolph returns to Pittsburgh after spending the 2024 season with the Tennessee Titans, where he appeared in 8 games and started 5. He showed growth in Tennessee, managing the offense efficiently and demonstrating the poise of a seasoned veteran. Now back with the Steelers, Rudolph brings leadership, familiarity with the organization, and a chance to be a steady presence while the team evaluates its long-term future at quarterback.
Will Howard, the rookie with prototypical size and a live arm, is the future. He offers mobility, toughness, and upside that should excite the coaching staff. Giving him time to develop behind Rudolph could be the smartest move, rather than rushing him into a brutal schedule or sitting him behind a short-term rental like Aaron Rodgers.
Pay T.J. Watt: Highest-Paid Defender in the League Again
Watt is the engine of Pittsburgh’s defense. In 2024, he may not have led the league in sacks—finishing tied for 8th with 11.5—but he still dominated a crucial category: he led the NFL with 6 forced fumbles, showcasing his rare ability to create momentum-swinging plays. His leadership, toughness, and relentless motor set the tone every Sunday. At 30, Watt remains at the peak of his powers, and the Steelers should reward him accordingly.
It’s time to give Watt a contract extension that makes him the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL again. Not only has he earned it, but it would send a clear message: Pittsburgh takes care of its leaders. Building around Watt and a young quarterback is the blueprint for sustained success.
Building Through the Draft: The 2025 Class
The Steelers’ 2025 draft strategy emphasized reinforcing the defense and adding depth to key positions, aligning with their long-term vision.
Round 1, Pick 21: Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon
Harmon brings a disruptive presence to the interior defensive line, showcasing quickness and strength. His addition addresses the need for a successor to veteran Cameron Heyward.
Round 3, Pick 83: Kaleb Johnson, RB, Iowa
Johnson is a powerful runner with a knack for finding the end zone, tallying 21 touchdowns in his final college season. He adds depth to the backfield and complements the existing running game.
Round 4, Pick 123: Jack Sawyer, EDGE, Ohio State
Sawyer is known for his high motor and versatility on the edge. His ability to pressure the quarterback and defend the run makes him a valuable rotational piece behind T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith.
Round 5, Pick 164: Yahya Black, DL, Iowa
Black offers size and strength on the defensive line, contributing to the team’s depth and rotational options in the trenches.
Round 6, Pick 185: Will Howard, QB, Ohio State
Howard possesses a strong arm and mobility, providing developmental potential at the quarterback position. His selection indicates the team’s interest in grooming a future starter.
Round 7, Pick 226: Carson Bruener, LB, Washington
Bruener adds depth to the linebacker corps with his tackling ability and special teams potential.
Round 7, Pick 229: Donte Kent, CB, Central Michigan
Kent brings agility and coverage skills to the secondary, aiming to contribute on special teams and develop into a reliable cornerback option.
This draft class reflects the Steelers’ commitment to bolstering their defense and preparing for the future, particularly at quarterback.
The 2025 Schedule: A Brutal Gauntlet
The upcoming season won’t be easy. Pittsburgh’s 2025 schedule is stacked with playoff contenders and elite quarterbacks. Here’s a breakdown of opponents and a game-by-game win/loss prediction:
Week 1: @ New York Jets – LOSS
Justin Fields leads a revamped Jets offense, and their top-tier defense stifles the Steelers’ attack. On the road, with a young Steelers QB or Mason Rudolph under center, expect a slow offensive start.
Week 2: vs. Seattle Seahawks – WIN
Home opener energy helps. The defense rattles Sam Darnold and controls the pace.
Week 3: @ New England Patriots – WIN
The Patriots are still rebuilding, and the Steelers capitalize on their inexperience.
Week 4: vs. Minnesota Vikings (Dublin) – LOSS
Traveling overseas proves challenging, and the Vikings’ high-powered offense outpaces the Steelers.
Week 5: Bye Week
Week 6: vs. Cleveland Browns – WIN
A divisional dogfight, but the Steelers take it at home.
Week 7: @ Cincinnati Bengals – LOSS
Road woes continue as Burrow bounces back and exploits the secondary.
Week 8: vs. Green Bay Packers – LOSS
The Packers’ defense creates turnovers, and their offense does just enough to secure the win.
Week 9: vs. Indianapolis Colts – WIN
A close game, but the Steelers pull through with a strong defensive performance.
Week 10: @ Los Angeles Chargers – LOSS
Justin Herbert’s precision passing proves too much for the Steelers’ defense.
Week 11: vs. Cincinnati Bengals – WIN
Burrow struggles against the pass rush, and the Steelers capitalize.
Week 12: @ Chicago Bears – WIN
The defense overwhelms the Bears, and the offense does enough to secure the victory.
Week 13: vs. Buffalo Bills – LOSS
Josh Allen’s dual-threat ability keeps the Steelers’ defense off balance.
Week 14: @ Baltimore Ravens – LOSS
Lamar Jackson dominates time of possession. The Steelers struggle to generate explosive plays, and Baltimore controls the game with a balanced attack.
Week 15: vs. Miami Dolphins – WIN
The Steelers’ defense contains Tua Tagovailoa, and the offense finds rhythm.
Week 16: @ Detroit Lions – LOSS
The long trip and the Lions’ high-powered offense prove too much for the young Steelers.
Week 17: @ Cleveland Browns – LOSS
A rowdy environment and a late pick cost the Steelers the game.
Week 18: vs. Baltimore Ravens – WIN
In a gritty battle, the Steelers edge out the Ravens to split the season series.
Projected Record: 9–8
This is a realistic record considering the difficulty of the schedule and uncertainty at quarterback. A 9–8 season keeps Pittsburgh in the playoff hunt while allowing the team to develop its younger core—especially at the most important position in football.
Final Thoughts
The Steelers don’t need a flashy, short-term fix like Aaron Rodgers. They need continuity, leadership, and a long-term plan—one built around a young quarterback and a dominant defense led by T.J. Watt.
Let Rodgers finish his career elsewhere. Let Mason Rudolph and Will Howard take the reins. And above all, invest in the future, not in fading legacies.
Pittsburgh’s culture has always been about grit, loyalty, and smart football. If the front office leans into that identity, this team can grow into a true contender in the coming years—without the drama.
Cody Hatfield
Fresh Off the Clock
Comments