Bayless Blames Rodgers as Steelers’ Playoff Push Falters

The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves sliding at a difficult time, coming off a deflating 26–7 loss to the Buffalo Bills that placed their playoff hopes in jeopardy. With five games remaining, Pittsburgh is clinging to postseason relevance while searching for answers across an offense still trying to establish rhythm and identity.

At the center of the conversation is quarterback Aaron Rodgers, whose first season in Pittsburgh has drawn increasingly vocal scrutiny. The most pointed critique this week came from national commentator Skip Bayless, who argued that the veteran quarterback’s behavior is playing a major role in the team’s struggles.

Rodgers, who turned 42 on Tuesday, is navigating one of the most challenging stretches of his late-career tenure, balancing production with leadership demands and mounting expectations. The team’s recent inconsistency has elevated every miscue, magnifying both internal issues and outside commentary.

As Pittsburgh prepares for a critical stretch, the larger narrative is shifting toward whether the veteran quarterback can steady the offense — and whether his leadership style is resonating in a locker room under pressure.

1. Bayless Takes Aim at Rodgers’ Leadership

During a recent episode of The Arena podcast, Bayless labeled Rodgers a “finger pointing, blame deflecting diva,” arguing that the veteran has skirted responsibility in the wake of losses. He claimed Rodgers’ attempts at expressing accountability were undercut by subtle gestures suggesting teammates were more at fault. Bayless placed the weight of the Steelers’ Week 13 defeat squarely on the quarterback, contending that Rodgers’ postgame comments and sideline demeanor signal poor leadership. His criticism centered on the idea that Rodgers distributes blame rather than assuming it. He also suggested that such behavior could alienate teammates, particularly wide receivers who depend on trust and communication with their quarterback. According to Bayless, this pattern mirrors the issues Rodgers reportedly faced in his final years with the Green Bay Packers. The analyst concluded that Pittsburgh’s recent setback is emblematic of a deeper problem — one he believes originates with Rodgers’ handling of adversity and his influence on team dynamics.

2. Impact on Steelers’ Locker Room and Outlook

The Steelers’ offense has struggled for consistency, and public critiques have only intensified scrutiny of how Rodgers’ leadership is perceived inside the locker room. While Bayless’ comments reflect one perspective, the timing of his remarks highlights a period in which Pittsburgh’s receivers and offensive unit are searching for cohesion. Rodgers’ visible reactions during games — including hand gestures and expressions of frustration — have long been part of his playing style, though interpretations vary regarding their effect on teammates. Some view his intensity as competitive drive, while others see a strain on team chemistry. Pittsburgh, meanwhile, must navigate the challenge of maintaining unity amid outside noise. Coaches and players have largely avoided engaging in public debates, focusing instead on correcting on-field execution as they look to regain balance late in the season. With the playoff race tightening, the Steelers have little margin for internal friction. Resolving communication issues and stabilizing offensive rhythm will be essential for a team that still believes it can recover.

3. Season’s Final Stretch Raises Bigger Questions

Rodgers’ age and recent performance have fueled broader discussions about his future, both in Pittsburgh and in the NFL. Turning 42 adds another layer to the evaluation, particularly as the quarterback approaches decisions regarding retirement or continued play. The Steelers entered the season with aspirations of becoming a postseason contender, bolstered by a veteran quarterback expected to elevate the roster. Now, with five games remaining, the focus shifts toward whether Rodgers can help guide the team back into the playoff picture. If Pittsburgh falls short, significant offseason decisions could follow. Given Rodgers’ contract situation and the team’s broader direction, speculation about possible changes — including at the quarterback position — is growing. Before that conversation takes shape, Pittsburgh faces a pivotal stretch beginning with a Week 14 divisional matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, a game that could determine whether their season gains new life or slips out of reach.