Chris Broussard didn’t hold back when assessing the Pittsburgh Steelers’ playoff hopes after acquiring veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers. On FS1, Broussard gave a sobering projection that this could mark Mike Tomlin’s first losing season as head coach — despite optimism surrounding Rodgers’ presence.
Analyst says Aaron Rodgers’ arrival won’t be enough as AFC North competition looms large
The longtime analyst argued that Aaron Rodgers’ arrival has been overhyped, especially given the brutal competitiveness of the AFC North. “This is going to be the 1st losing season of Mike Tomlin’s career,” Broussard said. “I’m going to give them some benefit of the doubt. Now, I’m not saying they will definitely, but let’s say they start 3-0. That’s a big if.”Broussard laid out a scenario where the Steelers split their six division games in the AFC North — going 3-3 — and still finish the season at 8-9. “Even if I say they start 3-0, go .500 in the division, they’re still 8-9. I just think it’s going to be failure,” he added.
Rodgers hasn’t made playoffs since 2021
Broussard also questioned Rodgers’ recent form and injury history, suggesting the hype around his arrival is misplaced. “He (Aaron Rodgers) hasn’t made the playoffs since 2021. His last three seasons — or really two, since he got hurt with the Jets in his first year — he’s 13-21.”
Given the strength of the AFC North — with Joe Burrow’s Bengals, Lamar Jackson’s Ravens, and a resurgent Browns defense — Broussard argued that Rodgers may not be enough to push the Steelers into contention. Not everyone agrees with Broussard. Former NFL player and FS1 analyst James Jones offered a completely different outlook, suggesting Rodgers’ arrival instantly elevates the franchise.“Well they’re a playoff team now,” Jones said on The Facility. “Once you get to the playoffs, anything can happen. Coach Tomlin should have a smile on his face this morning because now your team has a chance to compete,” he continued. “A couple of days ago, your team did not have a chance to compete, but Aaron Rodgers walking into that building — instantly you’re a playoff team. I believe Aaron Rodgers still has a lot of good football left in him.”
Also read: Eagles double down on Saquon Barkley – Jalen Hurts takes backseat as Philly commits to run-first eraThe Steelers last made the playoffs in 2021 and have remained on the fringe since. Tomlin, renowned for never having a losing season since taking over in 2007, now finds himself in the crossfire of conflicting projections — with the 2025 campaign shaping up to be one of the most scrutinized of his career.
