The Pittsburgh Steelers’ 2025 training camp, running until August 13 at St. Vincent College, commences after a uniquely transformative offseason defined by high-profile trades. With quarterback Aaron Rodgers now at the helm and star pass-rusher T.J. Watt secured with a new three-year extension, the team hopes to shift its focus from offseason drama to on-field chemistry.
New-Look Offense: Can Rodgers and Smith Coexist?
The most critical dynamic to watch is the integration of Aaron Rodgers into offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s system. A potential philosophical clash exists: Rodgers’ offense last season featured the second-most pass attempts in the NFL, while the Steelers’ run-heavy scheme ranked fourth in rushing attempts.
Further, Smith’s previous offenses have reportedly limited the quarterback’s authority to change plays at the line of scrimmage. This contrasts sharply with Rodgers, who has historically thrived with the autonomy to make pre-snap adjustments. Reaching a functional compromise will be paramount to avoiding a power struggle and maximizing offensive potential.
Three Players to Watch
CB Jalen Ramsey: Acquired in a trade that sent safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to the Dolphins, Ramsey joins a cornerback room that already features Darius Slay and Joey Porter Jr. His role remains a key question. Will Ramsey remain on the outside, move to the nickel position, or transition to safety to fill the void created by Fitzpatrick’s departure?
TE Jonnu Smith: In a separate trade with Miami, the Steelers added Smith, a versatile tight end familiar with Arthur Smith’s offensive system. With Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington established, camp will reveal how he fits into the scheme and if his role impacts the opportunities for hybrid fullback/tight end Connor Heyward.
RB Kaleb Johnson: Following Najee Harris’s departure in free agency, the third-round rookie is positioned for a significant role. Johnson’s bigger, more physical running style is designed to complement the speed of veteran Jaylen Warren. Training camp will be crucial for defining their snap distribution and evaluating Johnson’s readiness, particularly in pass-protection drills.
Key Position Battles
Wide Receiver No. 2: Calvin Austin III vs. The Field
After trading George Pickens, the Steelers enter camp searching for a reliable No. 2 receiver to line up opposite DK Metcalf. Fourth-year wideout Calvin Austin III is the leading internal candidate after an efficient season where he averaged 15.2 yards per reception on 36 catches. Camp will determine if he can solidify the starting job or if the team must look for outside help.
Slot Cornerback: Jalen Ramsey vs. Beanie Bishop Jr.
Beanie Bishop Jr. had a solid rookie season but showed inconsistency late in the year. The team could deploy the veteran Ramsey in the slot to stabilize the position, a move that would maximize his versatility. Alternatively, they could give Bishop the chance to win the job outright, with newcomer Brandin Echols and rookie Donte Kent also competing for snaps.
Projected 53-Man Roster
OFFENSE
- QB (3): Aaron Rodgers, Mason Rudolph, Will Howard
- RB (3): Jaylen Warren, Kaleb Johnson, Kenneth Gainwell
- WR (5): DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Robert Woods, Roman Wilson, Scotty Miller
- TE (4): Pat Freiermuth, Darnell Washington, Jonnu Smith, Connor Heyward
- OL (9): Broderick Jones, Troy Fautanu, Isaac Seumalo, Zach Frazier, Mason McCormick, Spencer Anderson, Calvin Anderson, Ryan McCollum, Max Scharping
DEFENSE
- DL (7): Cameron Heyward, Keeanu Benton, Derrick Harmon, Yahya Black, Logan Lee, Isaiahh Loudermilk, Daniel Ekuale
- LB (9): T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, Jack Sawyer, Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson, Cole Holcomb, Malik Harrison, Carson Bruener
- CB (7): Darius Slay, Jalen Ramsey, Joey Porter Jr., Beanie Bishop Jr., Cory Trice Jr., James Pierre, Brandin Echols
- S (3): DeShon Elliott, Miles Killebrew, Juan Thornhill
SPECIALISTS
- K (1): Chris Boswell
- P (1): Cameron Johnston
- LS (1): Christian Kuntz
