Hines Ward reveals what Steelers must do for Aaron Rodgers' final push

Aaron Rodgers needs the Pittsburgh Steelers to make one big move if he’s to chase a Super Bowl before his career winds down. That’s the take from Hines Ward, the Hall of Fame wideout and former Steelers star, who laid out the blueprint for Pittsburgh’s offseason.

Ward, now an analyst for CBS Sports, spelled out the Steelers’ path to contention in a recent interview. **They must land a top-tier pass rusher** to fix a defense that’s been shaky against elite QBs. Without that, he argued, Rodgers’ window won’t stay open. The 45-year-old QB has made it clear this could be his last shot at a ring, and Ward’s advice carries weight given his deep ties to Pittsburgh.

Rodgers, now 42, has spent two seasons with the Jets after a decade in Green Bay. His 2024 campaign ended early with a calf injury, but he’s still chasing hardware. Ward’s call for a defensive overhaul isn’t just hot air-it’s a direct response to Rodgers’ struggles under center when the pass rush disappears. Pittsburgh’s 2023 defense ranked 22nd in sacks, a stat that stings when you’re relying on a future Hall of Famer to carry the load.

The Steelers hit free agency hard in March, adding edge rusher Armon Watts. But Ward wants more. He pointed to the Chiefs’ blueprint: **a disruptive edge rusher who can win one-on-one battles**. Rodgers’ ability to extend plays and throw deep only works if the pocket holds. Pittsburgh’s brass knows the clock is ticking-not just on Rodgers’ career, but on their own contention timeline.

Rodgers hasn’t hinted at retirement, but he’s spoken openly about playing “as long as it makes sense.” Ward’s advice lands as the Steelers plan their 2025 roster. If Pittsburgh lands that game-changing pass rusher, Rodgers’ last push could look a lot like Patrick Mahomes’ early Chiefs-**elite QB play masking defensive gaps**. But without the fix, even Rodgers’ magic might not be enough.