Aaron Rodgers Joins Steelers for Final NFL Season: Can He Lead Pittsburgh to Playoff Glory?

July 8, 2025
Aaron Rodgers Joins Steelers for Final NFL Season: Can He Lead Pittsburgh to Playoff Glory?
  • Aaron Rodgers has officially signed a one-year contract worth $13.6 million with the Pittsburgh Steelers, marking what he claims will be his final NFL season.

  • Rodgers, a likely Hall of Fame inductee, has had a storied career, including leading the Green Bay Packers to a Super Bowl, but his time there was marred by tensions over team decisions.

  • His departure from Green Bay followed a tumultuous period, particularly after the drafting of Jordan Love, which ultimately led to his trade to the New York Jets in April 2023.

  • In 2023, Rodgers played only four snaps before suffering an Achilles tendon injury, and his return in 2024 did not lead to playoff success for the Jets, who finished with a disappointing 5-12 record.

  • With the Steelers not having won a playoff game since 2016, there is significant pressure on Rodgers to enhance the team's performance while respecting the established locker room dynamics.

  • Head coach Mike Tomlin and team veterans like Cam Heyward and T.J. Watt will play crucial roles in helping Rodgers adapt to the Steelers' culture, which emphasizes strong leadership and cohesion.

  • However, concerns have been raised regarding Rodgers' fit within the team's culture and leadership dynamics, as expressed by former NFL player Jason Cabinda.

  • Cabinda voiced skepticism on 'Good Morning Football', referencing the Steelers' previous signings of quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, who both left after just one year.

  • The Steelers' offensive line is seen as a critical component for the success of the offense, especially in providing better protection for Rodgers than he had with the Jets.

  • The tight end group, featuring Jonnu Smith and Pat Freiermuth, is expected to be vital to the offense, particularly as Smith favors utilizing multiple tight ends.

  • The article speculates on how the Steelers' offense will function under Rodgers and offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, whose run-heavy approach contrasts with Rodgers' historically pass-heavy style.

  • Additionally, there is potential for a 'thunder-and-lightning' running back duo with Jaylen Warren and rookie Kaleb Johnson, reminiscent of successful backfield combinations from Rodgers' past.

Summary based on 2 sources


Get a daily email with more NFL stories

More Stories