Pittsburgh Steelers fans are ready for the start of the 2025 NFL season, they feel as though their roster has improved, although there remains scepticism over their choice of quarterback.
Aaron Rodgers is set to embark on what is likely his final NFL season as the Pittsburgh Steelers‘ starting quarterback.
After signing a one-year contract worth $13.6 million in June, Rodgers arrives with the goal of ending the Steelers‘ long playoff drought and restoring the franchise’s winning culture, which has waned slightly since Ben Roethlisberger‘s retirement.
The Steelers will begin their preseason campaign this Saturday against the Jacksonville Jaguars, an opportunity for Rodgers and the team to gauge their offensive cohesion.
However, it appears Rodgers may not take the field during this first game.
According to ESPN’s Brooke Pryor,Rodgers does not expect to play unless Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin specifically requests it.
Rodgers stated he was willing to participate but indicated it was not the current plan.
Rodgers’ body isn’t in the condition to play too much football
Last year, Rodgers faced significant adversity. After joining the New York Jets, he suffered a season-ending Achilles injury on his very first snap.
Despite that, he returned to play 17 games in the 2023 season, throwing for nearly 3,900 yards with 28 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.
The Jets, however, struggled to a disappointing five wins, which ultimately led Rodgers to seek a fresh start in Pittsburgh.
Rodgers replaces Russell Wilson and Justin Fields as the Steelers’ primary quarterback. Expectations are high for the veteran quarterback, a four-time NFL MVP, to lead the team out of its postseason slump – the Steelers have not won a playoff game since 2015.
The organization and fans alike hope Rodgers‘ leadership and experience will translate into a much-needed resurgence.
Beyond his on-field contributions, Rodgers appears committed to embracing the Steelers‘ team culture. Reports suggest he has worked hard to integrate with teammates and staff, signaling a different approach than during his time with the Jets.
With the Steelers struggling to find consistent success in recent years, Rodgers‘ arrival represents more than just a new quarterback signing.
The franchise is looking for a leader who can elevate the entire team and end the nearly decade-long playoff victory drought.
The coming weeks, including practices and preseason matchups, will be critical in determining how well Rodgers adapts to the Steelers’ offensive system and how quickly the team can develop chemistry under his guidance.
His performance will be scrutinized heavily, as the Steelers and their fanbase anticipate a return to playoff contention.
Ultimately, Rodgers‘ final chapter in the NFL could hinge on whether he can translate his proven talent and veteran leadership into wins in Pittsburgh.
The season ahead will be a defining moment for both the quarterback and the franchise.
Read the full article here
