“He could do better”: Mike Tomlin delivers brutal message as Aaron Rodgers takes four sacks in Steelers debut
Aaron Rodgers made his debut for the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, September 7, 2025, against the New York Jets at Acrisure Stadium. The 41-year-old quarterback threw four touchdowns in a close 34-32 win. But the victory raised concerns, as Rodgers was sacked four times and hit several more. Head coach Mike Tomlin quickly pointed to young left tackle Broderick Jones as part of the problem.
Mike Tomlin points finger at protection issues
Speaking after the game, Tomlin didn’t hold back. “He could be better. Our quarterback got hit too much and he was a component of that,” Tomlin told reporters, according to Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Jones, drafted in the first round in 2023, returned to his natural spot at left tackle this season after playing mostly on the right side.
But against the Jets, he struggled with pass protection. Two of Rodgers’ sacks came directly from his edge, forcing the veteran quarterback to scramble and absorb hits.
Still, Tomlin backed Jones to recover. “You don’t get to the National Football League by being fragile emotionally,” the coach said. “He’ll learn, he’ll respond.”
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Aaron Rodgers shines despite pressure
Even under heavy pressure, Rodgers reminded fans of his skill. He completed 22 of 30 passes for 244 yards and four touchdowns. His chemistry with the new wide receiver DK Metcalf , who caught four passes for 83 yards, stood out.
Aaron Rodgers also praised offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, shutting down rumors of tension. “There’s a lot of garbage being talked about myself or Arthur out there,”Rodgers said. “We got a great relationship, and he called a really good game.”
Tomlin also pointed to second-year tackle Troy Fautanu as needing growth. “Just like Broderick. I thought he had some good moments, I thought he certainly could be better,” he said.
The Steelers escaped with a Week 1 win, but Rodgers’ health will depend on how quickly the offensive line improves.
Mike Tomlin points finger at protection issues
Speaking after the game, Tomlin didn’t hold back. “He could be better. Our quarterback got hit too much and he was a component of that,” Tomlin told reporters, according to Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Jones, drafted in the first round in 2023, returned to his natural spot at left tackle this season after playing mostly on the right side.
But against the Jets, he struggled with pass protection. Two of Rodgers’ sacks came directly from his edge, forcing the veteran quarterback to scramble and absorb hits.
Still, Tomlin backed Jones to recover. “You don’t get to the National Football League by being fragile emotionally,” the coach said. “He’ll learn, he’ll respond.”
Also Read: Did Shilo Sanders Land With An NFL Team? Latest Update On The Ex-Colorado Buffaloes Standout
Aaron Rodgers shines despite pressure
Even under heavy pressure, Rodgers reminded fans of his skill. He completed 22 of 30 passes for 244 yards and four touchdowns. His chemistry with the new wide receiver DK Metcalf , who caught four passes for 83 yards, stood out.
Aaron Rodgers also praised offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, shutting down rumors of tension. “There’s a lot of garbage being talked about myself or Arthur out there,”
Tomlin also pointed to second-year tackle Troy Fautanu as needing growth. “Just like Broderick. I thought he had some good moments, I thought he certainly could be better,” he said.
The Steelers escaped with a Week 1 win, but Rodgers’ health will depend on how quickly the offensive line improves.
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