The Aaron Rodgers era is set to kick off for the Pittsburgh Steelers this Sunday as the star quarterback returns to face his former team, the New York Jets.
Rodgers, a standout for the Packers for most of his career, did not produce as much in his two seasons with the Jets. As Rodgers took his first few snaps for the Jets two seasons ago, he tore his Achilles, which continues to hurt his mobility. Now, Rodgers has a revenge game against his old team.
Rodgers should be able to regain some of his star potential with the Steelers, because he knows how to read defenses and get the ball to his top receivers. An issue the Steelers will need to deal with is protecting Rodgers from sacks because of his limited mobility.
Another issue for the Steelers is that defensive lineman Cameron Hayward wants to renegotiate his contract. Hayward has been “holding in” during practices, meaning he attends mandatory team meetings and practices, but does not participate often.
Heyward is expected to play against the Jets despite the contract disputes. He is set for a big game alongside Steelers star T.J. Watt, who got a big contract a month ago.
The wide receiver position is another in question, with the Steelers trading for D.K. Metcalf and getting rid of George Pickens. The Steelers have no true second wide receiver, as Calvin Austin is mainly a slot receiver, but Roman Wilson and Scotty Miller have also been in rotation.
But the Steelers do have four tight ends to help the offense: Conner Heyward, Jonnu Smith, Patrick Freiermuth, and Darnell Washington. The question might be whether the team needs all four taking up roster spots.
The Steelers should go 10-7 this season with a great defense, but a lacking offense. The Steelers will make the playoffs but lose in the first round.