The Pittsburgh Steelers got a much-needed victory in Week 1 against the New York Jets. It was a closer game than anybody anticipated, but Pittsburgh squeaked out the win in atypical fashion. For once, the offense was able to win a high-scoring shootout. For years, the Steelers have won close games largely due to their defense. Pittsburgh’s new offseason additions came up huge for them in their first game of the season.
With speculation surrounding his ability, Aaron Rodgers came out and proved all of his detractors wrong in Week 1. He completed 22 of 30 passes for 244 yards and four touchdown passes, becoming the first quarterback to throw four touchdowns in his Steelers debut. He’s also the first Pittsburgh quarterback to throw four touchdowns since Ben Roethlisberger in 2020. Say anything about Rodgers, but don’t say he’s washed. The old gunslinger still has the juice.
Kenneth Gainwell was another offseason addition that turned heads in Week 1. The Steelers’ run game was weak, but Gainwell shouldered the most snaps of any running back on the team, he didn’t stop there. He went out and forced a fumble on special teams that gave Rodgers and the offense a short field, leading to a touchdown.
D.K. Metcalf was great in Week 1. He led the Steelers in targets and caught four passes for 83 yards, including a 31-yard reception that he created out of thin air. Rodgers already loves throwing him the ball. Jonnu Smith had a great first game as a Steeler, catching five passes for 15 yards and scoring a touchdown that made the difference. The new additions on offense played great.
The Steelers’ new additions in the secondary came up big in Week 1. Jalen Ramsey was as good as advertised. He made three total tackles, two solos, and defended two passes while playing every position in the secondary. Ramsey took over on the final drive of the game to secure the win for Pittsburgh. His impact on the defense can’t be overstated.
Juan Thornhill finished second on the team in total tackles with seven and made three solo tackles. Chuck Clark made four solo tackles and one tackle for loss. Darius Slay got burned on the Garrett Wilson touchdown, but he made five solo tackles and had a decent debut. Even Brandin Echols chipped in with two solo tackles, including a touchdown-saving tackle on Justin Fields.
Steelers general manager Omar Khan made a plethora of wild moves this offseason. It was an unprecedented summer for Pittsburgh, but all of the pieces came together in Week 1 to help bring home a win. If the Steelers want to be successful in 2025, they will need the new additions to keep it rolling through the season.
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