As the Cleveland Browns celebrate a surprise victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, cornerback Denzel Ward mocks the opposing offense led by Aaron Rodgers.

The Pittsburgh Steelers had the chance on Sunday to secure the AFC North Division title and a spot in the playoffs against the supposedly weak Cleveland Browns. But they failed to capitalize on this opportunity and lost 6-13.

According to Cleveland cornerback Denzel Ward, one of the reasons for this was that Pittsburgh threw in his direction three times in a row on their last drive.

“I’m always prepared and ready for moments like that,” he said. “I don’t know whose brilliant idea it was to test me on three plays in a row.” These words were directed primarily at Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who failed to throw a touchdown pass.
Overall, it was a bitter day for the Steelers’ offense, which gained 291 yards but converted only three of its 15 third-down attempts, failed to score a touchdown, and recorded just 160 passing yards.

Browns Denzel Ward: “I don’t know whose bright idea it was to try me for the game on three plays in a row.” pic.twitter.com/IcGMpaRuol

— Ashley Bastock (@AshleyBastock42) December 28, 2025

NFL Playoffs: Steelers face showdown against Ravens

The absence of suspended DK Metcalf was clearly noticeable on Sunday – and is likely to be again next week when the Steelers battle the Baltimore Ravens for the division title and a place in the playoffs.

Last year, the Steelers lost their last four games of the season, squandering their chances of winning the AFC North title and missing out on the playoffs. Now, this fiasco threatens to repeat itself – not least thanks to Denzel Ward and the strong Browns defense.