NFL

Mike Tomlin's Steelers issue strong warning to entire NFL about Aaron Rodgers

With the arrival of Aaron Rodgers in Pittsburgh, Mike Tomlin's Steelers are no longer just a gritty, defense-first team. They're sending a clear message to the rest of the NFL: they're ready to air it out and contend now.

NFL News: Mike Tomlin is asked to part ways with Steelers by Pittsburgh Super Bowl champion
NFL News: Mike Tomlin confirms why Steelers didn’t choose Shedeur Sanders in first round of 2025 Draft

June 12, 2025 12:58PM EDT

**© Joe Sargent/Getty Images**Mike Tomlin head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers

During the 2024 season, Mike Tomlin and the Pittsburgh Steelers had one of the most run-heavy offenses in the NFL. Now, with Aaron Rodgers and DK Metcalf on the roster, Arthur Smith publicly admitted that will have to change. A huge warning about the potential of this unit.

“Obviously, as your roster evolves, we didn’t bring Aaron in here and signed DK for all that money to go run the wishbone. So, you know, you try to play to the strengths of your team. You’d love to be more balanced depending on how you want to attack defenses. Where you think their strengths and weaknesses are. That’s the game that’s played every Sunday.”

Last year, Smith tried to establish the running game to open up play-action opportunities and, although there were some flashes, he was never able to fully implement his system with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Rodgers will be a very different story.

Steelers admit they’ll lean on passing game with Aaron Rodgers

Arthur Smith admitted that, as the team’s offensive coordinator, he will have to adapt to the new personnel heading into the 2025 season. Considering a star arm like Aaron Rodgers’, that could mean a lot more passing attempts.

“Our job, especially as coaches, 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.”

NFL News: Report confirms why Mike Tomlin and Steelers couldn’t sign Justin Fields as Pittsburgh’s starting quarterback

Aaron Rodgers is one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history

Smith acknowledged that the opportunity the Steelers have with Rodgers is invaluable. Even though he’ll be coaching a 41-year-old player, the offensive coordinator knows the veteran still has plenty left in the tank.

“You’re talking about one of the all-time great quarterbacks. The things he has accomplished in this league. I’m just really excited to have him here. It’s going to be a fun journey. He’s been awesome.”