1 sneaky reason Steelers’ Aaron Rodgers is in position to ball out in 2026

The Pittsburgh Steelers need everything they can get from veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers this season. Rodgers famously returned to Pittsburgh for one last campaign, in 2026. An ESPN report is revealing some interesting information about Rodgers, and why he may be in position to have a phenomenal year.

The reason for that is because of Steelers tight end Darnell Washington.

“For a quarterback like Rodgers, who needs clean pockets to operate at this point in his career, having a tight end who is essentially a sixth offensive linemen is particularly valuable,” ESPN reported.

Washington has great size. That is a plus for Rodgers, the outlet argues.

“Washington looks every bit of 280, maybe 290 pounds and what he opens up in the play-action passing game — as one of a few tight ends who can truly block a pass rusher one-on-one — cannot be understated in value,” the outlet added.

Steelers made some offensive line changes to help Aaron Rodgers

The Steelers have also played around with the offensive line. Some guys are playing in different spots, under first-year head coach Mike McCarthy.

“I didn’t realize the Steelers had flipped both Troy Fautanu (tackle) and Mason McCormick (guard) from the right side to the left this offseason. Offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio told me it was the staff’s idea, but the players were receptive given their success playing beside each other and experience playing on the left side in college. Fautanu, McCormick and center Zach Frazier form about as good of a young offensive line bedrock as you can find in the league. If Max Iheanachor can stay healthy and win the right tackle job, Pittsburgh has something here,” the outlet added.

McCarthy took the job after Mike Tomlin stepped down as Steelers head coach, following the 2025 season. Steelers fans are excited to see what this group can do under McCarthy.

Steelers fans get their first chance to see the team play an opponent on Thursday. That is the date of the Steelers’ first NFL Preseason game. The team takes on the Green Bay Packers.

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