Why the Steelers might surprise everyone in 2026

The Aaron Rodgers Effect & The Doubters’ Chorus

The Pittsburgh Steelers have defied expectations, clinching their first division title in half a decade—thanks in large part to Aaron Rodgers at quarterback. Yet Skip Bayless, never one to shy away from bold takes, insists this is a one-time fluke.

His reasoning? The Cincinnati Bengals and Baltimore Ravens are poised to be even stronger contenders in 2026. And he’s not entirely wrong. Both teams are perennial threats when fully healthy. But Bayless’s skepticism toward Rodgers isn’t new—so is this just another round of premature pessimism?

A Reunion Built on Success (And Skepticism)

Rodgers and head coach Mike McCarthy haven’t shared a full season since 2016—but when they did, they were an unstoppable force. In 11 seasons together, they hoisted a Lombardi Trophy and made deep playoff runs. Now, they’re tasked with resurrecting a Steelers team that finished last season ranked near the bottom in both offense and defense.

Yet Pittsburgh hasn’t stood pat. The addition of playmakers like Michael Pittman Jr. and Rico Dowdle could spark a turnaround. Bayless dismisses their playoff berth as luck, but a 10-7 record might just be the foundation. A little improvement could turn them into a nightmare for AFC North rivals.

History Says the Doubters Could Be Wrong

The division is brutal, but Rodgers and McCarthy have a habit of silencing critics. If history is any indication, this might be the year the doubters look foolish—again.