1. Pittsburgh Steelers
After a hot start to the season, the wheels are falling off the wagon in Pittsburgh. Aaron Rodgers is battling an injury, the defense isn’t playing up to its usual standard, and they’re officially tied with the 6-5 Baltimore Ravens in the AFC North. Head coach Mike Tomlin went all-in on the 2025 season, signing Rodgers and acquiring big names like Jalen Ramsey, D.K. Metcalf, and Jonnu Smith because he wanted to go on a deep playoff run for the first time in nearly a decade. Right now, it doesn’t look like that will happen.
With the trade deadline passed, Brandin Cooks might just be the best option this team has. Metcalf has played well in his new environment, but someone else needs to step up for this team, especially if the hand injury hinders Rodgers down the stretch. Tomlin will probably get this team to the playoffs with a nine- or 10-win season, but that’s not good enough anymore. They must try something to get this team out of neutral.
