Quarterback Rodgers struggled without Metcalf

 

 

 

 

DALLAS Cowboys legend Tony Romo has made a bold Pittsburgh Steelers claim.

Former quarterback Romo, 45, has made a major claim following DK Metcalf’s NFL suspension.

 

Super Bowl LVIII...Tony Romo on air for CBS during Super Bowl LVIII

 

Pittsburgh Steelers v Detroit Lions - NFL 2025DK Metcalf in action for the Pittsburgh Steelers against the Detroit Lions

 

 

 

 

Romo has claimed that the 28-year-old’s suspension was crucial in the Steelers‘ loss to the Cleveland Browns.

Wide receiver Metcalf appeared to punch a fan during the Steelers’ Week 16 win against the Detroit Lions.

He was handed a two-game suspension from the NFL following this incident.

 

 

 

This could cost Metcalf $45 million in future guaranteed money during his first season with the Steelers.

The Steelers have opted to stay with the wideout despite his suspension.

Metcalf joined the Steelers from the Seattle Seahawks ahead of the current season.

But Cowboys legend Romo believes that Metcalf’s ban has already proved costly for the franchise.

He has noted Metcalf’s absence as the Steelers suffered a 13-6 loss to the Browns.

 

 

 

“Pittsburgh probably wins this game if DK Metcalf is out there,” Romo said on CBS. “Because the coverage that you see, they press on the outside with no safety help.”

“Usually, there’s a safety that comes over and wants to help double-team when Metcalf is out there. They got to put him down in there and help on everybody else, and in the run game.”

Veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, 42, made just 168 yards against the Browns.

 

 

 

This was just the second time he has failed to throw a touchdown since joining the Steelers ahead of the 2025 campaign.

Romo has argued that the reason for this was because Metcalf was missing.

“Aaron knows where the ball should go versus that coverage,” Romo continued. “But they couldn’t make the play.”

Quarterback Rodgers embraced rookie rival Shedeur Sanders, 23, after the game.

 

 

 

The Steelers remain in playoff contention after claiming nine wins from 16 games so far this season.

Metcalf will only be able to play again for the Steelers if they advance to the playoffs.

He will again be missing as the Steelers host the Baltimore Ravens in a winner-takes-all matchup on Sunday.