Steelers Aim for Offensive‍ Balance with Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf

⁣ Updated June 12, ​2025

Teh Pittsburgh ⁢Steelers, known for their ‌run-first approach, are expected to shift their offensive⁣ strategy with the arrival of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers.⁣ after ranking fourth in the NFL with 533 rushing attempts⁤ in the 2024 season, the Steelers are now looking to achieve greater offensive balance.

Offensive⁣ coordinator Arthur Smith believes the⁣ addition⁣ of⁤ Rodgers, along ​with‍ wide receiver DK Metcalf, will create opportunities for a more balanced attack compared⁤ to last season’s quarterback duo of Justin Fields and Russell Wilson.

Smith ⁣emphasized the​ importance of adapting to the strengths of⁢ the team’s ​personnel. “you’d ‌love to be more balanced,” Smith said. “You’re not obvious in how you want to attack this defense,what you think their strengths and⁢ weaknesses are… we didn’t bring⁢ Aaron in hear — and [sign] DK ‌for all that money — to go run the wishbone. So, you know, you try to​ play ​to the strengths⁣ of your team.”

While the Steelers made the playoffs‍ with their ‍run-heavy approach, it wasn’t always effective. Their Wild ⁢Card game against the baltimore​ Ravens saw them abandon the⁣ run after ⁢falling behind‍ early.

Rodgers’​ presence is expected‍ to change the overall offensive ‌game plan,​ possibly making the run game more accomplished even with fewer attempts.

Our job, especially as a coach, is to play to⁣ the strengths of your players. We have our foundation things that don’t change,‌ but whether you lean into certain schemes, year after year, you⁣ adapt ⁤again ⁤to the personnel you’ve got. That’s what we try to do, ⁢ultimately, to win games and set guys up for success.

Arthur ‍Smith, Steelers Offensive Coordinator

What’s next

The Steelers will be ​closely watched to see how they integrate ​Rodgers and Metcalf into their offensive scheme and whether they can achieve the desired offensive balance to improve their playoff chances.