Steelers' 5 Greatest Observations Exposed As Bye Week Arrives

The Pittsburgh Steelers sit at 3-1 in the 2025 NFL season right as their bye week approaches. They kicked off the campaign with a win over the New York Jets on the road, followed by a brutal home loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Pittsburgh bounced back on the road again against the New England Patriots and then got another win in Dublin, Ireland against the Minnesota Vikings. The offense has looked better, but it still has work to do, while the defense has given up tons of offensive yards, yet has stood up in big moments. As the team heads into the bye week, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what’s been working and where improvements are still needed.

Aaron Rodgers had many pundits questioning exactly what he could bring to this offense at the age of 41. Through four games, he has completed 68.5% of his passes for 786 yards, throwing eight touchdown passes and just three interceptions. It’s been a solid offensive performance for Rodgers, but what’s been most impressive is how efficient he has been.

The Steelers are now resting up after a challenging trip across the pond. They will face the Cleveland Browns at Acrisure Stadium in Week 6 once the bye week concludes. This break gives the Steelers time to recover and prepare for their first AFC North matchup of the season.

1.) Aaron Rodgers Still Has It

The first observation is that Rodgers is more than capable of doing enough to help Mike Tomlin win games. It’s no secret that Tomlin has never had a losing season, and many wondered if Rodgers, at this stage of his career, might risk ending that streak. Through the first four games, however, it’s clear that Rodgers has what it takes to lead this offense at least to the playoffs, as long as he can stay healthy.

2.) Steelers' Defensive Struggles Remain Concerning

The Steelers’ superstar-laden defense, featuring TJ Watt, Cam Heyward, and several other standout players, has given up 404.8 yards of offense per game through four games. 

While they have managed to create some big turnovers and splash plays, the defense still needs to stop the bleeding if the team wants to end its playoff drought in the 2025 season.

3.) Steelers' Offensive Numbers Don’t Tell The Full Story

The Steelers rank as the fourth-worst offense if you look strictly at production stats. However, a closer look shows they actually sit just ahead of the Philadelphia Eagles. 

While the team has only averaged 263.5 yards of total offense per game, those numbers don’t tell the full story. The Steelers haven’t had to take many risks, as game situations haven’t demanded it outside of one matchup. Still, it is concerning that the offensive numbers rank among the league’s lowest. The stats don’t tell the entire story, though, as the offense has been efficient even while still having work to do. 

4.) Kenneth Gainwell And Jaylen Warren Could Be Lethal

Steelers fans were understandably concerned when it was revealed that Jaylen Warren would have to miss the Week 4 contest in Dublin, Ireland. Kenneth Gainwell stepped up hugely, rushing for 99 yards and scoring two touchdowns. He was also impactful as a pass catcher, hauling in six passes for 35 receiving yards. 

The running game had been inconsistent prior to that performance, and getting Warren back should provide a big boost. With both Gainwell and Warren in the backfield, the Steelers now have the potential for a lethal rushing duo.

5.) Steelers Must Involve Tight Ends More

The Steelers’ wide receiver room has been a topic of discussion, especially after the injury to Calvin Austin III. DK Metcalf is a superstar and will continue to dominate the target share. 

However, many Steelers fans would like to see Pat Freiermuth, Jonnu Smith, and Darnell Washington receive more opportunities. It can be challenging to spread the ball around, but Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith needs to do a better job of getting the tight ends the ball in space.

Do you agree with these takeaways from the Steelers before the bye week? Why or why not?