Aaron Rodgers Finally Signs With Pittsburgh Steelers Ahead Of 2025 NFL Season

The worst-kept secret in the NFL is finally official: Aaron Rodgers is a Pittsburgh Steeler. 

The 41-year-old has penned a one-year deal with Mike Tomlin’s side, ending months of speculation, and is expected to fly to Pittsburgh tomorrow and join his new teammates at next week’s minicamp. 

After being released from the New York Jets earlier this summer, Rodgers took his time, contemplating a 21st NFL season or retirement, but has finally committed to the Steelers.  

Ironically, he’s set to make his Steelers debut against the Jets on September 7th, in what’s already shaping up to be a must-watch week one showdown, with Justin Fields now leading the Jets against the very team he suited up for last season. 

A legacy seeking redemption 

Rodgers is best remembered for his time with the Green Bay Packers, where he spent 18 seasons, collecting four MVP awards and a Super Bowl title.

But after a forgettable two-year stint in New York, plagued by injuries and inconsistencies, the veteran quarterback will hope to rekindle some of his early career form in Pittsburgh. 

Rodgers will be by far the most accomplished quarterback the Steelers have had since Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement, and he will aim to guide the franchise to its first playoff win since 2017.

Does Rodgers fit the Steelers’ style?

There is no doubt about Rodgers’ ability, but does he fit the Steelers’ offence?

Mike Tomlin has spoken about the importance of the run game since hiring offensive coordinator Arthur Smith a year ago, but Rodgers attempted the second-most passes in the NFL last season. 

To go along with that, the Steelers acquired wide receiver DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks in the offseason, known for his deep-threat ability; however, Rodgers averaged just 6.6 air yards last season, ranking 32nd in the NFL.

Mobility is certainly another concern. Rodgers was sacked 40 times last year and rushed for just 94 yards in a league that dual-threat quarterbacks increasingly dominate. The veteran’s pocket-bound style may feel dated, and we saw glimpses of that in New York. 

Did any other teams want Rodgers?

Although a move to Pittsburgh seemed inevitable, other teams also showed interest in the veteran. 

The Minnesota Vikings and New York Giants were among the teams with an interest but opted to take other options. 

The Giants signed Russell Wilson in free agency, while the Vikings are putting complete faith in their 2024 first-round pick, J.J. McCarthy, who is coming off a meniscus tear that sidelined him for the entirety of last season.

Rodgers will hope to prove these teams wrong, while showing he still has the traits to be a competent NFL quarterback in 2025.