Latest news with #AFCNorth
Time of India
an hour ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Did Mike Tomlin deceive the NFL? Steelers secretly built offense around Aaron Rodgers while misleading media
Did Mike Tomlin deceive the NFL? (Image via Getty) Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback carousel took a dramatic spin as they officially signed Aaron Rodgers to a one-year deal—despite head coach Mike Tomlin's repeated public denials of any interest in the future Hall of Famer. Behind the scenes, though, the franchise had been quietly tailoring its offense around Rodgers for months. Rodgers, 41, enters the Steel City after an abrupt end to his Jets tenure, where a torn Achilles in Week 1 cut his 2023 campaign short. Sources say his new contract is packed with performance incentives, giving the Steelers a seasoned, low-risk option in their bid for playoff resurgence. NFL insider reveals Steelers' true intentions On Monday NFL insider Albert Breer disclosed on The Rich Eisen Show, 'Arthur Smith has been building an offense for the last 3 months with Aaron Rodgers in mind… I feel a pretty good degree of certainty that they felt like all along this was going to happen.' This under-the-radar orchestration clashes with Tomlin's draft-week remarks asserting a focus on Kenny Pickett's development. Former star Chad Johnson didn't mince words, calling Tomlin's version 'a beautiful lie. ' The public messaging has sparked debate over transparency in franchise strategy and media engagement. Aaron Rodgers resets the AFC North power equation With Rodgers now set to lead the Steelers, Pittsburgh instantly becomes a wildcard contender in a competitive AFC North. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List He joins a division stacked with quarterback talent—Joe Burrow in Cincinnati and Lamar Jackson in Baltimore among them. His leadership and postseason pedigree could reignite the franchise's playoff hopes. Also read: Tyreek Hill reignites Super Bowl chemistry with Willie Gay Jr. after Chiefs snub LB for Nick Bolton deal The risk, however, is real. At 41, Rodgers must prove his durability and adjust quickly to a new system. If the gamble pays off, Tomlin could be hailed as a master strategist. But if it fails, the secrecy might not be easily forgiven.
USA Today
2 hours ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Ravens' AFC North rivals have trouble brewing with their star pass rushers
Ravens' AFC North rivals have trouble brewing with their star pass rushers Ravens' AFC North rivals have trouble brewing with their star pass rushers One of the final gifts that Ozzie Newsome gave the Baltimore Ravens organization was the selection of Lamar Jackson. Let that sink in for a second. After serving his organization admirably for more than two decades, there wasn't anything more that he needed to prove. Still, he added the most talented quarterback this franchise has seen and then handed the keys to new GM Eric DeCosta. Ozzie has since settled into the role of Executive Vice President, a position he has held since 2019. Lamar has won two MVP trophies. DeCosta's approval rating is soaring. Things aren't going so well across the rest of the AFC North's landscape. No one is complaining. It just seems interesting. Nothing the Cleveland Browns or Cincinnati Bengals do surprises us anymore, but what the heck is going on in the Steel City? More bad news comes for the Steelers as the AFC North crumbles around the mighty Ravens Never will you ever hear The Flock toss sympathy in the Pittsburgh Steelers' direction, but what is happening over there? A once-pristine organization is beginning to remind everyone of... well... the Bengals and Browns. Pittsburgh is no longer the elite organization it once was. The fans want a new coach, and even though Mike Tomlin has never endured a losing season, people are tired of hearing that. The Steelers haven't won a postseason game since January 15, 2017, and Aaron Rodgers' addition doesn't seem to be evoking confidence. They've lost six straight in the playoffs, and now, to make matters worse, their best defender isn't happy. T.J. Watt reportedly won't be attending mandatory minicamp. No progress has been made on a possible extension. Do you see it now? News like this is expected from the Bengals and Browns. Cincinnati has ticked off Trey Hendrickson, and Germaine Pratt, finally released on June 9, has been asking to be traded since February. The Bengals still have yet to sign two of their draftees, Shemar Stewart and Demetrius Knight Jr. The Browns... Sheesh... What can be said about Cleveland that we haven't already said 200 times? Discussing the mess they've created for themselves would require another story and 700 more words. Here's where we'll end this. Life has been kind to Ravens fans and the Baltimore media. Just take a look at the culture they have established, and while you're at it, thank your lucky stars when you lie down tonight that you aren't a fan of one of their rivals.
Time of India
a day ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Chris Broussard predicts Mike Tomlin's first losing season despite Aaron Rodgers joining Steelers
Chris Broussard on Mike Tomlin's first losing season (Image via AP) Chris Broussard didn't hold back when assessing the Pittsburgh Steelers' playoff hopes after acquiring veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers. On FS1, Broussard gave a sobering projection that this could mark Mike Tomlin's first losing season as head coach — despite optimism surrounding Rodgers' presence. Analyst says Aaron Rodgers' arrival won't be enough as AFC North competition looms large The longtime analyst argued that Aaron Rodgers' arrival has been overhyped, especially given the brutal competitiveness of the AFC North. 'This is going to be the 1st losing season of Mike Tomlin's career,' Broussard said. 'I'm going to give them some benefit of the doubt. Now, I'm not saying they will definitely, but let's say they start 3-0. That's a big if.' Broussard laid out a scenario where the Steelers split their six division games in the AFC North — going 3-3 — and still finish the season at 8-9. 'Even if I say they start 3-0, go .500 in the division, they're still 8-9. I just think it's going to be failure,' he added. Rodgers hasn't made playoffs since 2021 Broussard also questioned Rodgers' recent form and injury history, suggesting the hype around his arrival is misplaced. 'He (Aaron Rodgers) hasn't made the playoffs since 2021. His last three seasons — or really two, since he got hurt with the Jets in his first year — he's 13-21.' Aaron Rodgers gives Steelers best QB play in years, will not make a difference | FIRST THINGS FIRST Given the strength of the AFC North — with Joe Burrow's Bengals, Lamar Jackson's Ravens, and a resurgent Browns defense — Broussard argued that Rodgers may not be enough to push the Steelers into contention. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Stylish New Mobility Scooters Available for Seniors (Take a Look) Mobility Scooter | Search Ads Search Now Undo Not everyone agrees with Broussard. Former NFL player and FS1 analyst James Jones offered a completely different outlook, suggesting Rodgers' arrival instantly elevates the franchise. 'Well they're a playoff team now,' Jones said on The Facility. 'Once you get to the playoffs, anything can happen. Coach Tomlin should have a smile on his face this morning because now your team has a chance to compete,' he continued. 'A couple of days ago, your team did not have a chance to compete, but Aaron Rodgers walking into that building — instantly you're a playoff team. I believe Aaron Rodgers still has a lot of good football left in him. ' Aaron Rodgers signs one-year deal with Steelers, team "now has a chance to compete" | THE FACILITY Also read: Eagles double down on Saquon Barkley – Jalen Hurts takes backseat as Philly commits to run-first era The Steelers last made the playoffs in 2021 and have remained on the fringe since. Tomlin, renowned for never having a losing season since taking over in 2007, now finds himself in the crossfire of conflicting projections — with the 2025 campaign shaping up to be one of the most scrutinized of his career.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Aaron Rodgers sparks Steelers fan meltdown as jersey-burning protest ignites controversy in Pittsburgh
Aaron Rodgers' arrival in Pittsburgh has ignited controversy (Imagn Images) Aaron Rodgers hasn't even thrown a pass in black and gold yet, but his arrival in Pittsburgh has already caused a firestorm—literally. Just days after the veteran quarterback officially signed a one-year, $10 million guaranteed deal with the Steelers, a passionate fan was caught on video torching a signed Minkah Fitzpatrick jersey in protest. Jersey burning draws backlash—and confusion The now-viral video, posted by @SteelCityReece, shows the fan erupting in fury over what he called the 'killing' of the team's future. 'I'll never be a Steelers fan again... Yinz pick up Aaron Rodgers—you keep killing us!' he shouted, referencing the team's controversial decisions to part ways with quarterback Justin Fields and wide receiver George Pickens. 'You let go of them for this? It's sad... today is my last day being a Steelers fan. ' While the fan's frustration over the team's direction isn't unique, his decision to target Fitzpatrick's jersey baffled many. The All-Pro safety had nothing to do with Rodgers' arrival and remains one of the most respected players on the roster. Steelers defensive leader Cam Heyward quickly jumped to Fitzpatrick's defense on social media, writing: 'First off, why Minkah's jersey? That's bonkers. Second, why burn it when people need clothes? Third, you'll regret it!' Heyward's response struck a chord, earning praise from fans and teammates alike. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo The post not only called out the protest's absurdity but also highlighted the needless destruction of valuable items during a time when many people are in need. A divided fanbase and a controversial new chapter At 41, Rodgers enters a Steelers locker room still reeling from recent roster upheavals. The release of Fields—now with Dallas—and the trade of Pickens to New England have left fans questioning the team's direction. For some, Rodgers represents one last shot at a playoff run. For others, he's a roadblock for younger talent like Kenny Pickett. Hall of Famer Terry Bradshaw also criticized Rodgers' acquisition, adding fuel to the controversy. Still, Rodgers brings undeniable experience and a proven track record when healthy. Whether that translates into success in Pittsburgh remains to be seen. Also Read: Can Aaron Rodgers lead the Steelers past Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow in the AFC North race? As training camp approaches, the Steelers hope on-field performance will silence off-field chaos. For now, though, Rodgers' presence is doing exactly what he has done throughout his career—capturing attention and dividing opinion.
USA Today
2 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Baltimore Ravens out to make AFC North division history this season
Baltimore Ravens out to make AFC North division history this season a Ravens division title in 2025 brings with it another inherent reward- bragging rights over the arch-rival Steelers The Baltimore Ravens are back-to-back AFC North division champions, and obviously, they're looking to three-peat in 2025. If they do so, they'll become the first team to accomplish this feat since divisional realignment occurred in 2002. That season saw the NFL expand to 32 teams via the introduction of the Houston Texans. Their arrival led to the league reformatting into four divisions (each with four teams) in both conferences, instead of three. So the AFC North has been in its current iteration for 22 years. The cute cartoon graphic below illustrates how many times each of the four teams has won the division crown since 2014 (sorry, Cleveland fans). Can we make it 5 this upcoming season? — RavensMuse (@Ravensmusee) June 7, 2025 Next, we factor in (you were never "told there would be no math") the number of division titles won since the format began up until a decade ago (2014). The Bengals won three more, bringing their total to six. The Steelers add five more division crowns, which raises their total to eight. And four more for the Ravens, which means their sum is now also at eight. The Browns add 0 to their other 0, and the only thing we can say for Cleveland is, well, hey, the Cavaliers have won the Eastern Conference four times since 2015! More importantly, a Ravens division title in 2025 brings with it another inherent reward- bragging rights over the arch-rival Steelers. Baltimore would become the first AFC North team to win the division nine times.
