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The Pittsburgh Steelers\u2019 offseason additions have undoubtedly improved their roster. There weren\u2019t any blockbuster moves, but the Steelers used free agency and the draft to shore up several positions of need. Even though these moves weren\u2019t made with Aaron Rodgers in mind, he might have his best supporting cast in several years if he returns, according to The 33rd Team\u2019s Steve Palazzolo.<\/p>\n
\u201cA lot of the positions where they were, maybe okay, corner with Jamel Dean, wide receiver two with Michael Pittman Jr\u2026Pittman\u2019s a good player, Dean\u2019s a good player. If it is Rodgers, this could be the best group of pass catchers he\u2019s had,\u201d Palazzolo said Monday on his Check the Mic podcast. \u201cYou\u2019re either gonna have Rodgers coming back, in maybe his best situation in a few years. I think I said that last year, too.\u201d<\/p>\n
Offensively, the additions are evident. Pittsburgh lost its leading pass-catcher, Kenneth Gainwell, in free agency. But Rico Dowdle, who had 1,328 scrimmage yards with Mike McCarthy in 2024, is certainly an adequate replacement. Perhaps the new coaching staff can get more out of Kaleb Johnson as the third running back as well. The offensive line has plenty of young pieces, with Max Iheanachor, Gennings Dunker, and Brock Hoffman significantly improving the depth.<\/p>\n
Offensively, the biggest drawback for Rodgers and the Steelers last year was the receiving corps. He couldn\u2019t get on the same page as Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson. The Steelers had to bring in a couple of veterans late in the year, but it was to no avail, and the lack of receivers handicapped the offense. But Michael Pittman Jr. and Germie Bernard each do things Rodgers would appreciate. It will be a better pass-catching group than last year. It has the potential to be the best Rodgers has had in a while.<\/p>\n
Ironically, many of the Steelers\u2019 issues in 2025 came on defense. While they didn\u2019t address every position on that side of the ball, Jamel Dean is a big help. Pittsburgh also added some more depth to the cornerback, safety, and defensive line groups. Perhaps the biggest change will come with a new voice leading the unit, though, as Patrick Graham takes over as defensive coordinator.<\/p>\n
While the Steelers didn\u2019t make any major additions to the group, Rodgers can lean on the tight end room as well. Overall, it\u2019s a talented roster. It\u2019s not ready to compete for a Super Bowl, of course. And the new coaching staff will have to find its way to begin the season. But on paper, Palazzolo is right that this Steelers team could represent Rodgers\u2019 best chance to compete in years.<\/p>\n