The worst thing about the NFL offseason? None of the hype matters once September hits. Pittsburgh Steelers fans have seen this movie before. Big headlines, major moves, rising expectations — and then the national media chimes in to pour cold water on it all. This time, it’s ESPN, and their bold predictions for the 2025 season haven’t exactly been kind to Mike Tomlin’s revamped squad.
In a recent joint article, multiple ESPN insiders laid out their expectations for each team — and according to them, Pittsburgh still doesn’t measure up. Despite an aggressive offseason full of All-Pro acquisitions and franchise-shaking moves, the Steelers were projected to finish with just 8.6 wins, a number that feels wildly underwhelming given the talent now residing in the locker room.
Let’s be honest, the skepticism isn’t totally baseless. Pittsburgh hasn’t had a top-tier offense in years, and while the defense has always been a proud, physical unit, wins are still what matter. A tough AFC North and a transition at quarterback make this a fair target for criticism.
But here’s the thing: context matters.
Yes, Aaron Rodgers is 41. Yes, he’s learning a new system under Arthur Smith and playing behind a reshuffled offensive line. But if anyone can adjust, it’s him. Rodgers isn’t just smart — he’s cerebral, calculated, and driven. Add that to his supporting cast — DK Metcalf, Jonnu Smith, Calvin Austin III, and a hungry group of young backs — and suddenly this offense has more potential than any in recent memory.
The Pittsburgh Steelers must use bold predictions as motivation for the 2025 season
Defensively, ESPN did give Pittsburgh some credit, acknowledging their bruising identity built around stars like T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Jalen Ramsey, Alex Highsmith, and new arrival Darius Slay. But still, that didn’t move the needle enough to change the narrative.
The playoff chances? 44.6%.Division title hopes? Just 18.5%.
Maybe the writers see the Steelers as too much of a gamble. Too many changes, too quickly, in too competitive a division. But here's where I respectfully disagree.
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Pittsburgh isn’t blindly grasping at hope — this is a calculated push. Omar Khan didn’t just patch holes; he rebuilt the foundation. He brought in championship DNA, leadership, and a new identity. This is a franchise that has long thrived off of doubters and chips on shoulders.
If anything, ESPN’s predictions should be posted on the walls of the locker room as fuel.
Mike Tomlin has never had a losing season. That matters. This is a coach who knows how to rally, adjust, and get the most out of his roster. And for once, the talent matches the vision.
No, the Steelers aren’t the favorites.
They don’t need to be. Because when the lights come on in September, it won’t be about predictions — it’ll be about performance. I believe Aaron Rodgers, T.J. Watt, and the rest of this group are ready to show the league exactly why you don’t count out the Steel Curtain.
Let the analysts talk. Pittsburgh will do what they’ve always done — prove them wrong.