Steelers Eyeing Rodgers? Pitman Arrives in Pittsburgh

Steelers Bolster Offense, Aaron Rodgers Decision Looms

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been making moves this offseason, and the latest acquisition of wide receiver Michael Pitman Jr. from the Indianapolis Colts, along with a swap of late-round draft picks, has fueled speculation about their quarterback situation. Pitman, who recorded 80 catches for 784 yards and seven touchdowns last season, now stands as another weapon alongside DK Metcalf. This move, coupled with the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Aaron Rodgers’ future, has many believing the Steelers are building towards a reunion with the veteran quarterback.

Rodgers to Pittsburgh: A Foregone Conclusion?

The narrative surrounding Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers has reached a fever pitch. Despite Rodgers himself stating on the Pat McAfee Show that he has not yet decided whether to play and that no contract offer has been made, the team’s actions suggest otherwise. Analyst Dan Orlowski is convinced, stating, “You can write that in pen. Rodgers is going to go back and be the starting quarterback for the Steelers. You’re not going about this process in Pittsburgh unless you have a really good feeling about that.” Orlowski believes the Steelers are heading for a familiar cycle: a 10-7 season, a playoff appearance, but ultimately falling short against top competition, leaving them in the same quarterback quandary next year.

However, other perspectives offer alternative explanations for the perceived delay. “Why hasn’t it happened yet? If it seems so obvious,” pondered an analyst, suggesting Rodgers might be waiting to see if the Steelers make other moves he dislikes, such as pursuing Kyler Murray. Another theory posits that Rodgers might be holding out for a call from the Minnesota Vikings, a destination he might prefer over Pittsburgh.

The Steelers’ inaction at the quarterback position, aside from the Pitman trade, reinforces the notion that they are banking on Rodgers’ return. “They have done nothing else at quarterback,” noted an observer. The addition of Pitman, described as a “guy that catches the ball in short area close to the line of screen,” makes sense in conjunction with a quarterback like Rodgers. Yet, the possibility remains that if Rodgers does not return, the Steelers might turn to their developing prospect, Will Howard, believing he has potential and that coach Mike McCarthy excels at developing quarterbacks.

Other Teams Make Waves: Cowboys, Giants, and 49ers

The offseason activity extends beyond Pittsburgh. The Dallas Cowboys have been active on defense, acquiring edge rusher Rashawn Gary. While Gary’s 33 pressures last year would have led Dallas, and his addition alongside Quinnon Williams is seen as a positive start, some analysts question if it’s enough to overhaul a defense that was “very bad last year” and challenge the Eagles for the NFC East title.

The New York Giants, who won four games last season, are projected by some to double their win total to eight. This optimism is fueled by the additions of Isaiah Likely, whose skillset is compared to how Travis Kelce was utilized, and linebacker Terrell Edmonds. The potential impact of new coaching is also a significant factor, with one analyst suggesting the addition of John Harbaugh could be worth “two or three wins,” though this was met with skepticism regarding the team’s history of squandering leads.

Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers have made a significant offensive splash by acquiring veteran receiver Mike Evans. At 33, Evans is still considered impactful, particularly in the red zone and goal-line situations, providing a type of receiver the 49ers lacked. However, concerns linger about his durability and whether he addresses the team’s need for speed. The 49ers’ ability to contend, even with Evans, hinges on their health and the resolution of the contract situation with star tackle Trent Williams, whose potential departure is seen as a bigger loss than any offensive acquisition.

Winners and Losers of Offseason Day One

The initial wave of free agency saw several teams emerge as clear winners and losers. The Los Angeles Rams were lauded for their aggressive approach, particularly in strengthening their secondary with additions like Jaylen Watson and the re-signing of Trent McDuffy. They are now considered by some to be the best team in football.

The Tennessee Titans also received praise for their busy day, signing numerous players, many with prior connections to former Jets and Giants coaches. While needing significant help, their signings were seen as practical and effective.

On the other hand, the Philadelphia Eagles were identified as significant losers. They saw a notable exodus of players, including Phillips and Dean, and have yet to resolve the situation surrounding star receiver A.J. Brown. While the Eagles maintain they won’t trade Brown unless their price is met, the lack of urgency and the potential for a draft-day trade linger.

The A.J. Brown saga continues to be a major storyline, with teams like the New England Patriots, Chargers, and Houston Texans being mentioned as potential suitors. The upcoming draft is seen as a crucial deadline for any potential trade involving Brown, echoing his own trade to Philadelphia on draft day years ago.

Source: Is Aaron Rodgers' return to the Steelers a FOREGONE CONCLUSION? 🤨 | Get Up (YouTube)