Ranking Aaron Rodgers’ top 5 defensive tests of 2026 season

The Pittsburgh Steelers ’ 2026 schedule gives Aaron Rodgers no shortage of difficult defensive tests. Some matchups will come against familiar AFC North opponents, while others will arrive during a brutal late-season stretch that could define Pittsburgh’s playoff push. For Rodgers, the biggest challenge will not just be making throws.

It will be surviving pressure, avoiding costly mistakes, and finding answers against units built to give offenses fits. 5) Cleveland Browns The Browns might have a new defensive structure after another major coaching change, but this is still a group with enough talent to make life uncomfortable for Rodgers and the Steelers ' offense. Like Pittsburgh, the Browns overhauled their staff this offseason.

After the team passed him over for the head coach vacancy, Jim Schwartz told the Browns where they could stick it, so whether the Browns will remain the defensive juggernaut of the past remains to be seen. Mike Rutenberg, who will be calling plays for the first time in his career under new head coach Todd Monken, most recently served as defensive pass game coordinator with the Atlanta Falcons. Cleveland finished last season fourth in total defense and third against the pass, and the front still runs through DPOY Myles Garrett.

That alone makes this matchup dangerous, especially for a Pittsburgh offense that will need to keep Rodgers clean and on schedule. The Browns also have real strength behind Garrett. Mason Graham gives them a disruptive presence inside, while DROY Carson Schwesinger and Quincy Williams form a linebacker duo that can help close running lanes and keep Pittsburgh from getting comfortable underneath.