Sunday’s humiliating loss to the Cleveland Browns in Week 17 prevented the Steelers from securing a postseason berth. After Pittsburgh’s final-ditch attempt, a ball from Aaron Rodgers to Marquez Valdes-Scantling in the end zone corner, failed, Cleveland emerged victorious 13–6.
Many believed that the Browns had gotten away with a pass interference penalty on the play. Denzel Ward, a cornerback covering Valdes-Scantling, made contact, for sure. However, no flag was raised, and the incompletion led to a turnover on downs and the game’s conclusion.
not pass interference?! 🤔 pic.twitter.com/zmgtFGAEu5
— Benstonium (@Benstonium) December 28, 2025
Aaron Rodgers expressed his belief that the Steelers were robbed on the play and that Ward ought to have been flagged in an interview with reporters following the defeat.
According to Mike DeFabo of The Athletic, Rodgers stated:
“That was definitely interference,”
The Steelers will play the Ravens in their season finale in Week 18 in an AFC North title match after losing at Cleveland’s Huntington Bank Field. The winner will advance to the postseason and eliminate their opponent.
