Steelers' DK Metcalf discusses connection with Aaron Rodgers after concerning report

Earlier this week, an alarming report suggested that Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers lacks chemistry with key wide receivers DK Metcalf and 2024 third-round draft pick Roman Wilson.

During a Wednesday appearance on CBS Sports HQ, Metcalf insisted his connection with Rodgers is fine heading into Pittsburgh's preseason opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Saturday. 

"He sees how much I love the game," Metcalf said about Rodgers, Sports Illustrated's Brigid Kennedy shared. "I see how much he loves the game and how much football he's been through. Just pouring all of that knowledge into the younger guys and myself." 

Rodgers could have had stronger working relationships with his teammates had he joined the club earlier in the offseason. He signed a team-friendly contract shortly before the Steelers began their three-day mandatory minicamp in June.

That said, Steelers players have "gravitated to" the future Hall of Famer throughout the summer. Rodgers' "connection" with Wilson reportedly "took a step in the right direction" on Tuesday. According to ESPN's Brooke Pryor, Rodgers hit Metcalf for a pair of touchdowns during a Wednesday drill. 

"I think it's been great," Metcalf added about working with Rodgers. "Him and [offensive coordinator Arthur Smith] are [collaborating] on some great ideas. I look up to him, [not] just in the football aspect, [but] what he's been through in life. For me to learn from his experiences and whatnot, I think he's just a great addition to my life and my career, just having him at this point in my journey."

Following the initial report about the alleged struggles of the Pittsburgh offense during training camp, some wondered if head coach Mike Tomlin would play his starters in Jacksonville. That won't be the case, as Tomlin confirmed on Thursday that Rodgers, Metcalf and other first-teamers will be spectators.

According to ESPN, Tomlin didn't completely rule out the possibility of Rodgers taking some preseason snaps this month. The Steelers host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Aug. 16 before finishing the preseason at the Carolina Panthers on Aug. 21.