Mike McCarthy’s Steelers Offensive Plan Is Coming Into Focus

Rodgers’ 2025 season featured quick throws and relatively few deep attempts. His average depth of target (ADOT) was just 6.6 yards. In 2026, however, that number has risen to 8.3 yards. Rodgers is taking more shots downfield, but he isn’t the only reason Pittsburgh’s offense has become more dangerous. Running back Jaylen Warren has played an equally important role.

Warren is forcing defenses to respect both his rushing ability and his presence in the passing game. He can create explosive plays in either phase, as he demonstrated Sunday against the Colts. His versatility is also helping the Steelers get other playmakers involved. Pat Freiermuth caught two touchdown passes, while Germie Bernard finished with 80 receiving yards.

That production reflects Rodgers’ willingness to attack different areas of the field, but Warren’s ability to make big plays gives the offense another dimension. Defenses can’t focus solely on the passing game without risking a big run, nor can they load up against the run without leaving opportunities for Rodgers to exploit through the air.

That uncertainty keeps defenses on their heels, which is exactly what McCarthy wants.

“He’s the man. He’s hauling it for us right now. … Jaylen’s crushing it right now. He’s been awesome for us,” McCarthy said during his postgame press conference.

Is This Sustainable?

From Weeks 3 through 5, the Steelers’ offense has ranked among the NFL’s most efficient units. Pittsburgh has found success both through the air and on the ground, with its rushing attack standing out in particular.

Entering Monday Night Football, the Steelers ranked in the following offensive metrics from Weeks 3 through 5:

• Third in offensive EPA: 0.166
• Ninth in offensive success rate: 47.3%
• 13th in dropback EPA: 0.172
• 16th in dropback success rate: 46.4%
• Second in rushing EPA: 0.154
• Third in rushing success rate: 49.2%

Combined with Rodgers posting his highest ADOT since 2022, these numbers suggest that Pittsburgh’s offense is finding its groove. The Steelers are generating efficient production on the ground while showing a greater willingness to push the ball downfield. That combination makes the offense more difficult to defend and gives McCarthy multiple ways to attack opposing defenses.

However, Pittsburgh still has areas to improve, particularly its production against man coverage. The Steelers found answers in the passing game against the Colts despite Indianapolis’ frequent use of man coverage, but tougher tests await against defenses that can consistently challenge Pittsburgh’s receivers in those situations.

For now, the Steelers’ balanced attack has produced encouraging results over the past three weeks. Warren’s impact, Rodgers’ increased willingness to throw downfield and the emergence of additional contributors have helped McCarthy establish a clearer offensive identity.

The next step is sustaining that success. If McCarthy can continue adapting his scheme, finding favorable matchups and building on the connection between the passing and running games, Pittsburgh’s offense could become an increasingly difficult challenge for opposing defenses as the season progresses.