- Joined
- May 8, 2002
- Posts
- 1,264,311
- Reaction score
- 59
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers addressed reporters at training camp with an update on the receiving corps, noting that key starters DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. are both dealing with minor injuries.
However, the veteran signal-caller highlighted the opportunity created for younger wideouts, offering high praise for reserve receivers stepping into larger roles.
Reporting from Latrobe, Steelers beat writer Nick Farabaugh shared Rodgers' remarks on X.
"DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. have injuries, Aaron Rodgers said,” said Farabaugh in a post on X. “Rodgers pointed out how guys like Germie Bernard and Brandon Smith have stepped up. Rodgers with a ton of praise for Smith, who he says is in much better shape than he was when both were on the Jets."
With top targets Metcalf and Pittman sidelined or limited, rookie Germie Bernard and journeyman Brandon Smith have capitalized on increased first-team reps. For Rodgers, seeing younger pass-catchers earn his trust during high-leverage team drills is a critical component of building depth before the regular season begins.
Rodgers offered particularly detailed praise for Smith, whom he previously shared a locker room with during their time together with the New York Jets. The 42-year-old quarterback noted a dramatic transformation in Smith's conditioning and physical preparation, pointing out that the receiver looks significantly leaner and sharper in his route-running than in previous seasons.
While the Steelers hope to have Metcalf and Pittman back to full health soon, the extra snaps provided to Bernard and Smith could pay long-term dividends for Pittsburgh’s offensive rotation. Rodgers' public vote of confidence underscores how physical improvement and sharp practice execution can rapidly elevate a receiver's standing in a new offense.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Aaron Rodgers praises reserve WRs as Metcalf, Pittman deal with injuries
Continue reading...
However, the veteran signal-caller highlighted the opportunity created for younger wideouts, offering high praise for reserve receivers stepping into larger roles.
Reporting from Latrobe, Steelers beat writer Nick Farabaugh shared Rodgers' remarks on X.
"DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr. have injuries, Aaron Rodgers said,” said Farabaugh in a post on X. “Rodgers pointed out how guys like Germie Bernard and Brandon Smith have stepped up. Rodgers with a ton of praise for Smith, who he says is in much better shape than he was when both were on the Jets."
With top targets Metcalf and Pittman sidelined or limited, rookie Germie Bernard and journeyman Brandon Smith have capitalized on increased first-team reps. For Rodgers, seeing younger pass-catchers earn his trust during high-leverage team drills is a critical component of building depth before the regular season begins.
Rodgers offered particularly detailed praise for Smith, whom he previously shared a locker room with during their time together with the New York Jets. The 42-year-old quarterback noted a dramatic transformation in Smith's conditioning and physical preparation, pointing out that the receiver looks significantly leaner and sharper in his route-running than in previous seasons.
While the Steelers hope to have Metcalf and Pittman back to full health soon, the extra snaps provided to Bernard and Smith could pay long-term dividends for Pittsburgh’s offensive rotation. Rodgers' public vote of confidence underscores how physical improvement and sharp practice execution can rapidly elevate a receiver's standing in a new offense.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Aaron Rodgers praises reserve WRs as Metcalf, Pittman deal with injuries
Continue reading...
