Former Packers Center Expresses Desire to Return and Support Matt LaFleur Amid Team’s Struggles

Foxborough, MA — October 6, 2025, 07:51 PM EDT — Following a resounding victory by the New England Patriots over the Buffalo Bills on Monday night, former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Josh Dobbs has broken his silence, revealing the challenging times he endured during his tenure with the Steelers. In a candid postgame interview, Dobbs asserted that "Steelers held me back," shedding light on a period he believes stifled his development. The Patriots, led by Dobbs as a backup to Drake Maye, secured a surprising 27-24 upset against the 4-1 Bills at Gillette Stadium, ending Buffalo's five-game winning streak. Dobbs came off the bench in the fourth quarter, completing 12 of 15 passes for 142 yards and a touchdown, clinching the win with a game-sealing drive. The victory lifted New England to 1-5, offering a glimmer of hope in an otherwise dismal season. Reflecting on his Steelers days (2017-2018), Dobbs didn’t mince words. “The Steelers held me back,” he told reporters. “There was no clear plan for me behind Ben [Roethlisberger]. I was left figuring things out on my own—no structure, no guidance. It was tough, and it slowed my growth.” His comments echo a recent interview with Tyler Dunne of Go Long, where he criticized the lack of a cohesive offensive framework during his time as Roethlisberger’s backup. Dobbs, who has since played for multiple teams including the Jaguars, Browns, Titans, Vikings, and 49ers, contrasted his Pittsburgh experience with the mentorship he’s received in New England. “Here, I get the ‘why’ and ‘how’—it’s night and day,” he said. Steelers fans on X reacted with mixed feelings, with one posting, “Dobbs thriving now—Pittsburgh really dropped the ball,” while others defended the team’s focus on Roethlisberger. The Steelers (3-1), fresh off a bye week and a Week 4 win over the Vikings, face the Cleveland Browns in Week 6. Dobbs’ revelation adds fuel to ongoing debates about quarterback development under Mike Tomlin, especially as the team navigates its current offensive struggles with Aaron Rodgers. For Dobbs, tonight’s win marks a personal redemption, proving his potential beyond Pittsburgh’s shadow.