The Pittsburgh Steelers made a bold move by signing veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers in the offseason. So, the pressure was on immediately for Rodgers and the Steelers offense coming into the 2025 season. That spotlight only appeared to intensify after Pittsburgh’s first-round pick, defensive tackle Derrick Harmon, suffered a knee injury during Thursday’s preseason game against the Carolina Panthers.
All eyes were already on Rodgers, but any setback for the Steelers places even more pressure on the 41-year-old QB this season. Thankfully, head coach Mike Tomlin said after the preseason finale that Harmon suffered a knee sprain and, though he could still miss time, it's not as serious as initially feared.
Historically, this Pittsburgh franchise has always built its reputation on having powerhouse defenses. However, Harmon or any key defensive piece being sidelined with an injury causes that defensive stability has taken a potentially big hit, which could in turn place more on Rodgers and the offense. As the supposed savior, Rodgers carries an intense expectation, not only to direct the offense but to also pick up any slack for the defense due to injury or other shortcomings.
Derrick Harmon injury scare highlights pressure on Aaron Rodgers-led Steelers offense
Harmon came into the league with grand expectations, ready to anchor the Steelers defensive front alongside established stars like Cam Heyward and T.J. Watt. Known for his burst, strength and versatility, Harmon appears poised to play a key role in his rookie campaign. However, a knee sprain suddenly put that in jeopardy.
With a potentially thinner defense, offensive mistakes will be more costly for Pittsburgh to overcome. Rodgers must deliver more consistent scoring, minimize turnovers and elevate the performance of those around him, including wide receivers whose value could rival top talents like DK Metcalf. Rodgers’ impact and presence need to be clearly felt in the locker room, hopefully encouraging his teammates to take greater accountability.
With offensive coordinator Arthur Smith calling the shots, working alongside Rodgers, the Steelers’ offense will emphasize quick decision-making, strong offensive line play and more creativity for an added edge. The Steelers need Rodgers to be more than just a field general, but the backbone holding their playoff hopes are riding on.
Rodgers’ collective pressure meter just got a little more intense for the upcoming season. With the Steelers searching for an offensive identity, A-Rod faces high expectations to elevate his game and guide this franchise toward postseason success and ultimately, the Super Bowl ambitions that fans have been eagerly yearning for. Pittsburgh will be counting on the future Hall of Famer to be the catalyst for this crucial chapter. The heat is on in the Steel City for Rodgers and this offense to be much improved from what it’s been in recent years.