The Pittsburgh Steelers have had an atypical offseason.
Usually the type of franchise to build through the draft and refrain from splurges in free agency and trades, the Steelers have made some bold moves this offseason.
The team began by trading for star wide receiver DK Metcalf, and then shipped fellow receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys.
Then, the Steelers added future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers in free agency. Nobody denies Rodgers' ability, but he will turn 42 during the 2025 season and there's no telling how much more gas he has in the tank.
Then, on Monday, the team made another surprising move in the form of a trade. The Steelers shipped out starting defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick to the Miami Dolphins, along with a 2027 fifth-round pick, in exchange for tight end Jonnu Smith, cornerback Jalen Ramsey, and a 2027 seventh-round pick.
The deal makes sense for the Steelers, as another veteran corner and reliable tight end were needed. But many people noticed one thing — this team is old.
The additions of Smith (30 in August) and Ramsey gives the Steelers two more 30-year-old players. Meanwhile, Fitzpatrick will turn 29 this year.
Barstool Banks, who writes about the Baltimore Ravens for Barstool Sports, threw a jab at the team, for example.
"Steelers really woke up and said 'How can we get older today?'"
Then, popular account ML Football also pointed out that the Steelers are filled with older players at key spots.
"THE 2025 STEELERS ARE AN OLD AGE HOME," said the account, before listing the ages for several key players.
Even the Sportskeeda Pro Football account had to get in on the action.
"Steelers Assemble… geriatric edition," said the account.
Of course, not EVERYBODY on the roster is getting long in the tooth.
Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu, the team's starting offensive tackles, are both on their rookie deals. Wide receiver Calvin Austin III and running back Jaylen Warren are also still younger.
On defense, the team added standout defensive lineman Derrick Harmon in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Keeanu Benton, Payton Wilson, and Joey Porter Jr. are all young, as well.
However, it's hard to deny that the team seems to be going all-in for this season, so having an older roster isn't a surprise. Rodgers has even heavily implied that this will be his last season, so it makes sense that the team has a sense of urgency.
On paper, Smith and Ramsey should play large roles in 2025. Smith is coming off a Pro Bowl campaign while Ramsey has been one of the best corners in the league when at his best.