The Pittsburgh Steelers had a hectic end to their OTA session, as while the final practice was wrapping up, Aaron Rodgers announced that he was signing a deal with the team. After months of speculation, the Steelers have their guy for 2025.
Now, they need to build a competent offense around him.
While OTAs were the first step in getting back to actual football, everything ramps up with mandatory minicamp. This is the perfect time to add a new face or two with the hopes of getting them up to speed before training camp.
The most obvious and pressing move for the team isn’t to sign Gabe Davis or another veteran receiver. It certainly isn’t to trade for Jonnu Smith. Instead, the Steelers should be all-in on acquiring Allen Lazard from the Jets.
The Pittsburgh Steelers need a familiar face for Aaron Rodgers
While this move seems like it is catering to Roders (and to an extent, it is), the Steelers need a viable second target in the receiver room. Lazard has proven to be just that during his time in the NFL.
He uses his big frame well, has deceptive athleticism, and consistently finds the endzone. When paired with Rodgers, the two have been productive together.
While being a viable second option itself is good, Lazard has a leg up due to his familiarity with Rodgers. It is no secret that he is one of the most meticulous quarterbacks in the league, and it takes a while for receivers to get in synch with the veteran.
While you would expect Rodgers to work on his relationship with D.K. Metcalf, he needs other options. The rest of the receiver room is young, and it could take a few weeks into the season for things to click.
You wouldn’t have that issue with Lazard. He can be an instant target in the passing game while still allowing the other young receivers to work into the rotation. He logged over 500 yards and six scores last year, great numbers for a secondary target, considering the Steelers want to run the ball a lot this year.
Assuming the price is right, reuniting Lazard with Rodgers would be a sound choice. It gives the team a viable core of receivers, and it allows Rodgers to have a comfortable target to work with. With OTAs finished, Omar Khan would be wise to get this deal done as soon as he can.
