Steelers GM Downplays All-In Narrative amid Offseason Moves, Won't 'Sacrifice' Future

You'd be mistaken if you thought the Pittsburgh Steelers were going all in this season when their sole plan at quarterback was signing a 41-year-old in the twilight of his NFL career.

General manager Omar Khan said Wednesday the Steelers are trying to win a Super Bowl in 2025, but "sustained success over time" is the broad organizational goal. Pittsburgh won't "sacrifice or do things that'll hurt us in the future."

It's true that signing Aaron Rodgers didn't cost any future assets, and he's only under contract for one season.

The 10-time Pro Bowler wasn't the only notable veteran who arrived this offseason, though. Pittsburgh added cornerback Darius Slay and acquired wide receiver DK Metcalf, cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith in trades.

ESPN's Brooke Pryor posited this was "a very un-Steelers-like offseason."

"For decades, Pittsburgh was a franchise built on drafting and developing its own players, but general manager Omar Khan continues to signal that he's not content with maintaining the status quo," she wrote.

A lot of fans in the Steel City will want to know when that "sustained success" is actually going to start.

Each season for the Steelers is following a similar pattern now. Head coach Mike Tomlin does just enough to deliver a winning record before losing in the postseason. Ultimately, everyone is left unsatisfied.

There's no clear indication that a brighter future is ahead, particularly because Pittsburgh lacks a succession plan at quarterback and hasn't developed a good young QB since Ben Roethlisberger retired.

Maybe Khan will silence his critics by assembling a roster that delivers an AFC North title and a playoff win or two.

Otherwise, it will be even harder for the front office to sell the idea there's a long-term vision in place.