The Aaron Rodgers era begins on Sunday for the Pittsburgh Steelers. After a less-than-impressive two-year stint with the New York Jets, Rodgers will look to bounce back with the Steelers this season.
Moreover, as fate would have it, Rodgers will face the Jets in Week 1. The defensive players on New York’s defense from last season know about Rodgers and his tendencies.
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On Friday’s edition of “NFL Live,” ESPN NFL analyst Mina Kimes shared the major concern she has for Rodgers as he faces off against his former team.
“If there’s one thing I know about Aaron Glenn, their new head coach, and Steve Wilks, their defensive coordinator, they love sending extra rushers,” Kimes said. “You’ve got to think they’re going to ask Sauce Gardner to man up DK Metcalf for much of this game.
“I think the question is, okay, if you send pressure, can you get home? Also, can you take away answers like Jonnu Smith and whatnot? Because Aaron Rodgers has proven to be quite susceptible against that at this point in his career.”
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Rodgers won’t likely be the version that he was with the Green Bay Packers at this point in his career. Nonetheless, he should have a chip on his shoulder that he can be a much better version that what was seen in New York.
He will look to get off on the right foot in Pittsburgh, who are coming off a playoff appearance last season. Anything less than that will be a step back for the Steelers.
It will be a challenging AFC North race with the Baltimore Ravens sitting at the top while the Cincinnati Bengals look to bounce back after missing the playoffs for two straight seasons. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns will be looking to surprise with veteran quarterback Joe Flacco.
