Rodgers’ Jets debut lit up the NFL spotlight and reshaped how fantasy managers view the Steelers’ Week 1 win. Pittsburgh showed a play-action breakthrough with a calmer pocket, but the left tackle issue and a muddy running game kept questions alive about offensive sustainability. Calvin Austin III and George Pickens impressed, while Freiermuth’s targets hinted at a tighter, more versatile tight-end role. The defense flashed, yet interior run-stuffing remains a concern as Seattle looms.

On the fantasy side, Rodgers’ rhythm elevates Jets receivers and tight ends while pressuring Pittsburgh’s playbook to lean into pass options. Watt and Highsmith led the Steelers’ rush, but the D-line needs more push and the secondary must tighten communication. Week 2 figures to test whether Caleb Johnson or a stopgap lineman can soften the edge, while Gainwell, Warren, and the evolving run game for Pittsburgh demand a clearer plan to complement the high ceiling passing attack.

Pittsburgh at MetLife to open the season brings high stakes for fantasy managers. Rodgers’ NYJ debut and Fields’ electric upside loom large, while Pittsburgh must navigate its revamped offense around Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson. Isaiah Loudermilk anchors a vulnerable run defense opposite Quinnen Williams, and Cam Hayward plugs the middle with Keanu Benton. Week 1 signals matter more than declarations; expect concrete data on the run game, pass protection, and which WRs can sustain targets.

Week 1 leans into a Pittsburgh Jets matchup with Pittsburgh still refining its receiving corps behind Pat Freiermuth. Gabe Davis signing with Buffalo adds an outside dynamic even as Calvin Austin and Roman Wilson push for early Week 1 action. Tomlin remains bullish on a DK Metcalf–style effect, while Cam Hayward and TJ Watt pace a defense that must slow Aaron Rodgers and a Jets crew eager to click out of the gate.

On the fantasy side, the debate centers on whether Pittsburgh can sustain a dink and dunk approach and still score enough. Rodgers versus a reshaped Pittsburgh defense, Fields and Ramsey in the mix, and a high tempo Jets offense create a Week 1 roller coaster where splash plays from the Steelers depth and a potential big game from Freiermuth could carry rosters in shallow weeks.

Robert Woods’ surprise release tightens a Steelers WR room that already hinges on Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson. Cam Hayward’s health and Nick Herbig’s availability shape Week 1’s defensive mood as Pittsburgh bets on a bold Tomlin led offense. Aaron Rodgers and the Jets loom, but Pittsburgh’s plan hinges on breakout potential from youngsters and a top-tier defense ready to carry pressure late in the season.

Fantasy angles sharpen: the Steelers’ pass game may lean on BJ/Calvin Austin and Wilson as Week 1 looks to test Cam Hayward’s impact and the run-pass balance. Jets’ stars—Garrett Wilson, Breece Hall, and Rodgers—bring a contrasting firepower that could push Pittsburgh’s defensive upside into a crucial week-one focal point.

Ultimately, the defense carries the hype while the WR corps remains a risky, high-upside bet. Tomlin’s confidence may be justified if the rookies seize the moment and the defense clamps down on the Jets’ attack, crafting a tight, grind-it-out opener for fantasy managers.