Steelers & Pirates: A City’s Sports Revival in Motion

By Steel Valley Sports

Photography by Eddie Kahl

PITTSBURGH — There’s something different in the air around the Steel City this fall. The roar of Acrisure Stadium, the crack of the bat at PNC Park — it all feels like a city rediscovering its confidence. With Aaron Rodgers leading the Steelers for what he’s called his final NFL season and Paul Skenes emerging as one of baseball’s brightest young arms, Pittsburgh sports are stepping back into the national spotlight.

Rodgers’ Last Ride

When Rodgers signed with the Steelers before the 2025 season, few could imagine how quickly he’d take command of the locker room. The 41-year-old quarterback has brought a mix of poise, leadership, and intensity that’s helped a young roster grow up fast. Through the first half of the year, Rodgers has thrown for over 1,200 yards and 14 touchdowns — flashes of vintage brilliance mixed with the awareness of a veteran who knows he’s on borrowed time. “This is where I wanted to finish,” Rodgers said earlier this year. “In a city that still values toughness, accountability, and tradition.”

Despite the occasional stumble, there’s no mistaking the effect he’s had on the franchise. Mike Tomlin’s team feels more disciplined, more focused, and more connected than in recent seasons. Whether it ends with a playoff run or not, Rodgers has already given Pittsburgh something it needed — renewed belief.

Skenes Sparks the Pirates

Across the river, another story of resurgence is unfolding. Paul Skenes, the Pirates’ 23-year-old ace, has given the city’s baseball fans reason to dream again. With a 1.97 ERA and more than 200 strikeouts, Skenes has been dominant, confident, and refreshingly old-school — the kind of pitcher who wants the ball every fifth day and isn’t afraid of the spotlight.

The Pirates might still be rebuilding, but Skenes’ performance has changed the conversation. For the first time in a decade, fans are talking about the future with optimism instead of frustration. He’s quickly becoming the face of a franchise long searching for stability — and maybe, finally, a leader to build around.

A City That Never Stops Believing

What ties these two stories together isn’t just the players — it’s the place. Pittsburgh thrives on hard work, loyalty, and resilience. It’s a city that refuses to quit, and its teams reflect that DNA.

From Rodgers’ final run to Skenes’ first, Pittsburgh sports are reminding fans why they fell in love with the games in the first place. The names may change, the eras may shift, but one thing remains constant: the Steel City always finds a way to rise.

#PittsburghSports, #Steelers, #AaronRodgers, #PittsburghPirates, #PaulSkenes, #WesternPennsylvania, #SteelValleySports, #TriStateSports