[On ESPN’s First Take,](https://www.espn.com/watch/catalog/59fe7218-3b48-4543-8f24-7bafd3956f03/first-take) a spirited debate erupted over the Pittsburgh Steelers. The back-and-forth focused on whether they would surpass or fall short of the 8.5-win over/under line. Joe Fortenbaugh, Stephen A. Smith and Damien Woody presented contrasting viewpoints, with Damien Woody’s comments adding a layer of complexity to the discussion.
Fortenbaugh predicted an “under” outcome, expressing significant concerns about the Steelers’ offense. He cited Aaron Rodgers’ age and recent inconsistency in performance.
“You’ve got a 40-plus-year-old quarterback who hasn’t had a good season in what, three years last year,” he said.
Aaron Rodgers showed flashes of his old MVP form towards the end of last season. He had standout games in Week 15, throwing for 289 yards and three touchdowns, and in Week 18, with 274 yards and four touchdowns. These moments prove that he can still light it up, even at the age of 41.
Fortenbaugh also expressed doubts about the receiving corps beyond DK Metcalf, the running game, and the offensive line.
“I don’t trust the receiving unit…The running game needs to get going. The offensive line still has question marks.”
He further criticized the team’s apparent reliance on Metcalf.
“It feels like it’s the DK Metcalf show and not much else in the way of difference makers.”
From a national perspective, the Steelers’ depth at wide receiver appears lacking. However, with the recent improvements of Calvin Austin III and Scotty Miller in the offense, coupled with their exceptional speed, there’s potential for an upside that may be overlooked. Additionally, the Steelers traded for Jonnu Smith, who has been a [favored tight end option for OC Arthur Smith](https://steelersdepot.com/2025/07/jonnu-smith-good-feeling-to-be-reunited-with-arthur-smith/) in previous organizations. Last season with the Dolphins, Jonnu Smith recorded 88 receptions on 111 targets, totaling 884 receiving yards with an average of 52 yards per game. That production ranked him among the top tight ends last season.
Finally, Fortenbaugh expressed concerns about age-related regression in the back end of the Steelers’ defense, citing the recent additions of players Darius Slay, Jalen Ramsey, and Juan Thornhill as evidence of a need to rebuild the defensive unit. The defense should be poised to be a top unit in 2025, but the group’s success will hinge on quickly coming together and maintaining health throughout the season.
On the other hand, Stephen A. Smith firmly disagreed and confidently predicted the Steelers would win at least nine games. He dismissed concerns about Rodgers’ age, highlighting his belief in Rodgers’ abilities and the team’s established success with coach Mike Tomlin.
“I’m never, I’m not going to be left with no Steelers. Mike Tomlin, the Pittsburgh Steelers…Aaron Rodgers can still throw that football,” Smith said.
Smith emphasized the presence of key offensive players like Pat Freiermuth and others. He also noted that he’d previously called the Steelers a “sleeper” team, suggesting that others were underestimating their potential.
Damien Woody agreed with Fortenbaugh’s concerns about the Steelers’ quarterback and the team’s offense. Stephen A. Smith had more confidence in the Steelers and coach Mike Tomlin, which contrasted with Fortenbaugh’s cautious view.
If history is any indication, Pittsburgh will have another winning season. But every streak comes to an end, and past success is no ironclad predictor of what the future holds.