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It looks like the Aaron Rodgers era of the Pittsburgh Steelers is off to a rough start. While the star quarterback has been engaged in training camp, the results tell something else, particularly with wide receiver DK Metcalf. At least for now.
Rodgers and Metcalf are new additions to the Steelers, who are banking on them to bolster their lackluster offense. Rodgers signed a one-year deal worth $13.65 million, hoping to ride off into the sunset on better terms compared to his forgettable two-year stint with the New York Jets.
Metcalf, meanwhile, was traded to Pittsburgh after spending his first six seasons with the Seattle Seahawks. He signed a five-year contract extension worth $150 million with the Steelers.
But so far, the chemistry between Rodgers and Metcalf leaves much to be desired, according to The Athletic's Mike DeFabo.
“While Rodgers’ quick release has married well with DK Metcalf’s ability to win on slants, the QB hasn’t been able to unlock his big-play threat downfield. During Sunday’s practice, Rodgers did find Metcalf on a deep cross thanks to some blown coverage. But that touchdown is the outlier in an offense that’s relied overwhelmingly on short, quick passes or checkdowns,” wrote DeFabo.
The 41-year-old Rodgers has unlocked the abilities of many pass catchers, especially during his time with the Green Bay Packers. He helped them become Pro Bowlers and get paid. He, however, is past his prime, and his partnership with the 27-year-old Metcalf could take more work.
“During a seven-on-seven period, Rodgers overthrew Metcalf on a pair of vertical routes. This comes days after Rodgers and Metcalf failed to connect on a go route during the two-minute drill to end Friday Night Lights. The only other memorable deep ball between the two in team periods also fell incomplete about a week ago,” added DeFabo.
But for what it's worth, that's exactly what training camp is for. The Steelers are identifying the holes early so they can fix them before the upcoming season.
