PITTSBURGH – June 12, 2025 — After a tumultuous two-year stint with the New York Jets, veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers is beginning a new chapter with the Pittsburgh Steelers, though he’s entering it with tempered expectations and a personal mission rooted in passion rather than accolades.
Rodgers, 41, joined the Steelers this week for the start of training, marking the start of what could be his final season in the NFL. Unlike his much-hyped arrival at the Jets in 2023, his first appearance in Pittsburgh was notably low-key. Head coach Mike Tomlin made it clear: “We’ll make no bold predictions.”
Rodgers Prioritizing Soul Over Super Bowl
Following months of retirement speculation after his release from the Jets, Rodgers clarified his decision to continue playing wasn’t driven by legacy or money.
“For my ego, I don’t need to keep playing,” Rodgers said. “This was a decision best for my soul… this is about the love for the game.”
Rodgers’ one-year deal with the Steelers is valued at $13.65 million, among the lowest salaries for a guaranteed starting quarterback in the NFL. He stated he still feels fit and ready to compete, citing that his Achilles injury in 2023 is no longer an issue.
He also revealed that during his hiatus from football, he got married — another reason for the delay in deciding his future.
Why Pittsburgh? Why Now?
The Steelers have struggled at quarterback since Ben Roethlisberger retired in 2021. Last season, a mix of Russell Wilson and Justin Fields led to inconsistency and a five-game losing streak that ended their playoff hopes. Both have since departed.
With limited depth — including backups Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson, and rookie Will Howard — Pittsburgh needed a proven starter. Rodgers had stayed in regular contact with Tomlin, and the mutual respect helped seal the deal.
“I just want to be a servant leader here, pass on knowledge, and try to fit in with the guys,” Rodgers said.
Rodgers is now the oldest active player in the NFL and becomes the oldest in Steelers history, surpassing even Roethlisberger.
Can the Steelers Compete for a Title?
The Steelers’ identity has long been anchored in defense, and that remains true. On offense, the team traded for star receiver DK Metcalf, who trained with Rodgers during the offseason. However, they allowed top contributors George Pickens and Najee Harris to depart.
Opinions are mixed on what Rodgers can bring. ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith said Rodgers “still has something left” and the team deserves a chance. But analyst Ryan Clark, a former Steeler, called it “the worst-case scenario,” saying Rodgers is no longer elite but too good to bottom out — potentially costing the team a shot at a future franchise quarterback.
The AFC North is one of the toughest divisions in football, home to elite quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow, with Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills also on the Steelers’ schedule.
If the Steelers can break their playoff drought — they haven’t won a postseason game since 2016 — the Rodgers gamble may pay off.
Final Season? A Farewell Tour in the Making
Rodgers may be poised for a farewell tour filled with symbolic matchups. The Steelers visit the Jets in Week 1 and will play host to Ireland’s first NFL game on September 28 against the Minnesota Vikings — one of three teams Rodgers spoke with this offseason.
The schedule also includes games against the Green Bay Packers (Week 8), and divisional matchups with Chicago and Detroit — old NFC North rivals.
Rodgers isn’t thinking legacy or redemption.
“I just want to have fun,” he said. “If that comes with a championship win, fantastic.”
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