Analyst has grave concerns for Steelers' AFC North chances in 2026

Jan 12, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) audibles during the second half of an AFC Wild Card Round game against the Houston Texans at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

The Pittsburgh Steelers are a little tough to get a proper read on ahead of the 2026 season, as Aaron Rodgers comes back for one last go-around.

Mike McCarthy is calling the shots, and Rico Dowdle and Michael Pittman Jr. are the shiny new weapons for No. 8.

But there are some who aren't sold on Pittsburgh as a division contender in 2026 (me included), as there are so many unknown factors, starting with Rodgers.

The floor is clear, but so too is the ceiling for the Steelers, and CBS Sports' Tyler Sullivan has grave concerns for the outlook of the 2026 season in the Steel City.

“The Steelers finally heard from Aaron Rodgers, and they will, in fact, have him back for the 2026 season,” Sullivan wrote. “That's the good news. The bad news is that the Steelers have a 42-year-old quarterback under center for them in 2026. Not only that, but the Steelers are likely to face a much tougher AFC North than the one they went 4-2 against last season.

“With two Super Bowl heavyweights foaming at the mouth to rebound this season, the Steelers could be in for a muted "Last Dance" for Rodgers.”

MORE: Are Chargers poised to break 17-year drought in 2026?

Will Rodgers' career end with a whimper?

Well, some thought that would be the case last year, and Pittsburgh won the division.

But I have a hard time believing the Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals will both be as bad as they were last year, along with the Steelers being good enough for long enough to compete with them.

Of course, I could be wrong, but how will Rodgers look at the ripe age of 42? Will McCarthy be able to get the most out of him? Will the offense be able to move the ball more efficiently? Can the defense improve on last year's effort?

Those are all questions that will be answered in due time, and until they are, I have a tough time thinking the Steelers will repeat as AFC North champs.

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