The addition of Aaron Rodgers has created an interesting dynamic for the Pittsburgh Steelers' offense.
The Steelers and offensive coordinator Arthur Smith like a run-heavy offense, as evidenced by Pittsburgh having the fourth-most rushing attempts in 2024. But now they have a quarterback who finished with the second-most pass attempts last season.
The concern is that could lead to a clash of philosophies, but Smith has made it very clear that the Steelers didn't bring in Rodgers and DK Metcalf, who the team also extended with a huge contract, to not pass the ball more.
"Obviously, as your roster evolves, obviously we didn't bring Aaron in here and sign DK for all that money to go run the wishbone," Smith said, per Mike DeFabo of The Athletic. "So, you try to play to the strengths of your team."
This echoes a report from Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer, who reported that Smith and the Steelers' offensive staff focused on building out an offense "that would highlight Rodgers' strengths."
There's no question the Steelers could use more balance on offense, but balance means nothing if the quarterback play isn't at a high enough level.
The hope is that Rodgers can offer better, more consistent play than Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, but he's going to have a tough time doing that if Pittsburgh doesn't add a legit No. 2 wide receiver to replace George Pickens.
So, while the intent on being more pass-heavy is good, the Steelers need the personnel to help follow through on that. Right now, with the issue at wide receiver, the Steelers don't have everything they need.
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