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Ben Roethlisberger Slams Team’s Own Offensive Line "Can Aaron take a beating like that every week?"

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The Pittsburgh Steelers won their season opener against the New York Jets on Sunday after the offense put up 34 points. It was an especially important win for new Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who was released by the Jets in the early part of the offseason following two disappointing seasons in New York.

However, as great as it was for the Steelers offense to put up points, Rodgers was under pressure for much of the game, and the rushing attack struggled to find its groove.

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Now, one of the Steelers’ greatest quarterbacks in franchise history is sounding off on the team’s offensive line.

“I’m very encouraged by the way Aaron played. My concern is going to be, moving forward, can Aaron take a beating like that every week? Not at that age. If that doesn’t improve, we’re not gonna have a quarterback very long, and it’s gonna be a rough season,” Ben Roethlisberger said in a podcast appearance, according to Steelers Depot.

Fans reacted to Roethlisberger online.

“He’s right Aaron is too old to take that kind of beating every week the offensive line HAS to play better,” one fan wrote on Twitter.

“We’re all spoiled being Steeler’s fans. That being said… When did we start aspiring to the hope that 1st round pick can at least be average?” one fan commented on YouTube, likely referring to the struggles of Steelers left tackle Broderick Jones.

It’ll be interesting to see how the unit looks in the Steelers’ second game against the Seattle Seahawks.

Trade Rumors: Eagles Firm on Retaining, Cowboys Await A.J. Brown’s Health Check Results
Philadelphia, October 13, 2025 - As the NFL trade deadline (November 4, 2025, 4:00 PM ET) approaches, Philadelphia Eagles' star wide receiver A.J. Brown remains a focal point of swirling trade rumors. Despite speculation, the Eagles have firmly stated they have no intention of trading Brown, while sources indicate that their arch-rivals, the Dallas Cowboys, are awaiting the results of a health evaluation on the 28-year-old to assess the feasibility of a potential blockbuster deal. Eagles Stand Firm The Philadelphia Eagles, currently 4-2 after Week 6 of the 2025 season, are focused on defending their NFC East crown and chasing another Super Bowl title after their LIX victory. Despite Brown’s underwhelming 2025 stats—274 receiving yards and 1 touchdown over 6 games—the team views him as a cornerstone of their offense. General Manager Howie Roseman addressed the rumors in a recent press conference, stating, “A.J. Brown is a vital part of this team. We have no plans to let him go. He’s a champion and still in his prime.” However, Brown’s cryptic social media posts have fueled speculation about his discontent with his role in the Eagles’ offense, particularly his limited targets. One post on X read, “I want the ball when the game’s on the line. That’s when I’m at my best.” This has led some to believe he may be frustrated in Philadelphia. Cowboys’ Quiet Pursuit While the Eagles remain steadfast, reports from ESPN and NFL Network suggest that the Dallas Cowboys (3-3) have discreetly inquired about Brown’s availability. According to insider Ian Rapoport, the Cowboys, desperate for a true WR1 to complement quarterback Dak Prescott, have requested Brown undergo a medical evaluation to assess his physical condition. The results could determine whether Dallas submits a formal trade offer, especially given Brown’s hefty contract (3 years, $96 million) and its significant dead cap implications. A source close to the Cowboys said, “Dallas sees Brown as a game-changer for their offense. But everything hinges on his health check and whether they can strike a deal with Philly, who won’t let him go easily.” The Cowboys rely heavily on CeeDee Lamb as their primary receiver, but their lack of depth at the position makes Brown an enticing target. Fan Frenzy and Social Media Buzz The rumors have ignited a firestorm among fans, particularly between the Eagles and Cowboys fanbases, whose rivalry is one of the NFL’s fiercest. An Eagles fan (@PhillyFan4Life) posted on X: “If the Eagles trade A.J. to the Cowboys, I’m done with football! He’s the heart of this team!” Meanwhile, a Cowboys fan (@DallasDynasty) gloated: “Bring Brown to Dallas! He’ll make Dak an MVP and crush the Eagles in Philly!” Analysts are split on the likelihood of a trade. A Bleacher Report article noted, “The Eagles would be crazy to send Brown to their biggest rival. But if he remains unhappy, things could shift by the 2026 offseason.” Current Outlook For now, A.J. Brown continues to practice with the Eagles ahead of their Week 7 matchup against the Cleveland Browns. There’s no official confirmation that he has undergone a health check for the Cowboys, though sources suggest this is a preliminary move by Dallas to gauge their options. Given Brown’s contract and his critical role in Nick Sirianni’s offensive scheme, a trade before the November 4 deadline seems unlikely. Still, if tensions persist or if the Cowboys offer an irresistible package—potentially a first-round draft pick plus a player—the possibility of Brown leaving Philly can’t be ruled out entirely. For now, both Eagles and Cowboys fans are on edge, especially with their heated rivalry game looming in November 2025, which promises to be even more explosive if these rumors persist.