Steelers’ New Explosive Offense Could Finally Bury The Dreadful Toss Play In 2025

The Pittsburgh Steelers' offense is finally coming together. After signing four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers to a one-year deal worth up to just under $20 million, the Steelers have now shifted their focus towards finding another playmaker on the offensive side of the ball. Rodgers, who is fresh off a failed two-year tenure with the New York Jets, is a skilled veteran who is expected to focus on further developing a connection with Pittsburgh's receiver room throughout the course of training camp.

Rodgers is expected to develop chemistry with the offensive line and running back room as well, as the former Jet finds himself at the center of an extremely versatile offensive unit. Headlined by Jaylen Warren and rookie Kaleb Johnson, the Steelers' running back room features two fast and elusive backs that are both expected to make a major impact this season. 

When asked for his thoughts on the current state of the Steelers' offense, Steelers insider Mark Kaboly took a moment to share his opinion.

"We can't dismiss the fact that Arthur Smith should be able to do what he wants to do," Kaboly stated. "I mean, all we talked about was that toss play last year because they felt that that was the only thing they could do. It's not like they wanted to do it all the time, I don't think his running backs were quick enough. Now you can do the outside zone stuff, they got quicker."

Kaboly then went on to speak about the Steelers' offensive line, claiming that the unit has gotten faster and much more athletic from last year.

"What do all the offensive lineman have in common? They are fast, athletic linemen," Kaboly explained. "They want to get out, make the easy block, make the running back do one cut down hill stuff and that's what Kaleb Johnson can do. And we know Jaylen Warren can do that, he gets up to speed quicker than anybody. He can run you over as well."

Johnson, a third round pick in this year's NFL Draft, is a promising rookie who is expected to open the season as Pittsburgh's running back two (RB2) behind Warren. Johnson was a star at the college level, and shined throughout his three seasons as an Iowa Hawkeye. The third round pick is expected to play a major role in Pittsburgh's backfield this season, as Johnson continues to turn heads throughout the offseason.

Warren is also expected to play a pivotal role in the team's success this season. He had a breakout year in 2023, as the Steelers' running back should have no problem producing similar numbers with Najee Harris no longer playing in front of him. With Warren and Johnson slated to take the majority of the snaps at the running back this season, Pittsburgh finds themselves with two of the most explosive and talented rising stars in the entire NFL.

Steelers Expected To Also Improve In Their Passing Game

With DK Metcalf and Calvin Austin lll solidifying themselves as the Steelers' wide receiver one (WR1) and two (WR2) entering training camp, the team is expected to also pursue veteran depth at the position. Metcalf, who was acquired in a trade earlier in the offseason with the Seattle Seahawks, is expected to play a major role as Pittsburgh's top wide receiver option. Austin, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract, has reportedly been practicing at an elite level and has recently emerged as a minicamp favorite.

With Rodgers officially in Pittsburgh on a one-year deal, the Steelers' offense now features versatility at every position. With both Johnson and Warren expected to perform at an elite level in 2025, Pittsburgh may find themselves with one of the top offensive units in the entire AFC.

Are you excited to see Kaleb Johnson and Jaylen Warren play this season?