The AFC North has long been recognized as one of the NFL’s most competitive divisions.
The Cincinnati Bengals have emerged as contenders behind Joe Burrow’s leadership, while the Baltimore Ravens continue their success with Lamar Jackson directing the offense.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have remained consistently competitive under Mike Tomlin, though they’ve searched for answers at quarterback since Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement.
That search appears to be over with Aaron Rodgers now in the fold, and the expectations are shifting dramatically.
ESPN’s Peter Schrager believes this could be the year Pittsburgh takes the next step.
“I’ve been very high on the Steelers the last few days, so high that today on First Take, I suggested they could be Super Bowl contenders. The reason I say that is because they didn’t just make these moves to get to where they were these last few years, which is a nice Saturday or Sunday afternoon Wildcard game, and then get bounced out of the playoffs. They could have signed another quarterback, or they could have gotten panicked when Rodgers wasn’t there; instead, they waited all this way, and they did trade a second-round pick and paid DK Metcalf $30 million. Those are not the moves of a team that is rebuilding, that’s the moves of a team that sees things happening this year with a window,” Schrager said.
.@PSchrags explains why he believes the addition of Aaron Rodgers could make the Steelers Super Bowl contenders 😳 pic.twitter.com/FZZVfMqov4
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) June 12, 2025
The Steelers could have pursued other available quarterbacks during free agency but remained patient in their pursuit of Rodgers despite minimal communication from the veteran signal caller.
Their commitment extended beyond the quarterback position when they acquired star receiver DK Metcalf in a trade, signaling their intention to compete at the highest level.
Pittsburgh’s defense has carried the franchise for years under Tomlin’s guidance, keeping the team relevant even without elite quarterback play.
The addition of Rodgers changes the dynamic entirely, giving offensive coordinator Arthur Smith weapons he’s never had before.
With Rodgers’ experience and Metcalf’s playmaking ability, Smith has the tools to create a balanced attack that could elevate this team from playoff participant to championship contender.
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