Overview
- Skip Bayless said on The Arena during the June 18–19 media window that he expects the Steelers to regress and likely miss the playoffs because the Bengals and Ravens will be stronger.
- Bayless based his view on Pittsburgh’s late‑season struggles in 2025, including a loss to Houston and close games that he says were decided by a missed Ravens field goal, and on inconsistent passing outputs from Aaron Rodgers in several late games.
- Other analysts and reports counter that Pittsburgh added veteran help on offense, naming wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. and running back Rico Dowdle, and note the Rodgers–Mike McCarthy reunion as a factor that could keep the team competitive.
- Coverage highlights rival moves that Bayless cites as reasons for concern: the Bengals’ reported defensive investment such as Dexter Lawrence and an elite passing attack led by Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, and the Ravens’ new coach Jesse Minter plus additions like Trey Hendrickson and Derrick Henry.
- The debate frames immediate stakes for Rodgers and McCarthy’s one‑year ‘win‑now’ plan, raises questions about Rodgers’ durability and succession planning, and leaves the division picture unresolved until on‑field results decide which preseason view proves accurate.