About Time: Aaron Rodgers Agrees to Deal with Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers have agreed to terms with four time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers on a one-year contract, pending a physical, as announced by the team on June 5, 2025. The 41-year-old quarterback, a future Hall of Famer, brings a wealth of experience and skill to a Steelers squad eager to break through for their first deep playoff run since 2016. After months of speculation and a rollercoaster offseason, Rodgers’ decision to join Pittsburgh marks a bold step for a franchise determined to revamp its offense and chase a Super Bowl.
Rodgers, despite his age, remains a formidable force under center. Coming off a challenging two year stint with the New York Jets, marred by a Week 1 Achilles tear in 2023 and a 5-12 record in 2024 his late season performance last year proved he’s still got plenty in the tank. Over his final 10 games with the Jets, Rodgers threw 18 touchdowns against just 4 interceptions, showcasing the pinpoint accuracy and clutch playmaking that have defined his legendary career. His 63% completion rate, 3,897 yards, and 28 total touchdowns in 2024, while not elite by his lofty standards, signal that the veteran can still elevate an offense when healthy.
The Steelers, desperate for stability at quarterback since Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement after the 2021 season, see Rodgers as the missing piece. Pittsburgh’s offense struggled with inconsistency in 2024, ranking 21st in expected points added (EPA). However, the team bolstered its arsenal last month with a blockbuster trade for former Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf, signing him to a five-year, $150 million deal. Pairing Metcalf’s downfield playmaking with Rodgers’ renowned arm talent and precision could unlock new dimensions for the Steelers’ attack, giving them a legitimate shot at postseason glory.
Defensively, Pittsburgh is already a powerhouse, and recent offseason moves have only strengthened the unit. The additions of six-time Pro Bowl cornerback Darius Slay and first-round draft pick Derrick Harmon, a top-tier defensive tackle, bolster a group capable of winning games on its own. With Rodgers steering the offense, the Steelers now have a balanced roster primed for success. His experience in high-stakes games—highlighted by a Super Bowl win in 2010 and four MVP awards—brings a winning pedigree to a team that’s made the playoffs four of the last five years but faltered in the wild-card round each time.
At 41, Rodgers may be in the twilight of his career, but his skill set remains a cut above. His ability to read defenses, extend plays, and deliver strikes in tight windows hasn’t faded, as evidenced by his strong finish to the 2024 season. The one-year deal reflects Pittsburgh’s calculated gamble: a short-term commitment to a proven winner who can bridge the gap while they develop younger talent like seventh-round pick Will Howard from Ohio State. If Rodgers can stay healthy and mesh with head coach Mike Tomlin’s system, the Steelers could finally break their postseason win drought and make a serious run in 2025.
The signing sets up fascinating storylines, including a Week 1 clash against the New York Jets, where Rodgers will face his former team, now led by ex-Steelers QB Justin Fields. A Week 12 trip to Chicago to battle the Bears and an international showdown with the Minnesota Vikings in Dublin’s Croke Park add intrigue to Rodgers’ journey with his third NFL franchise. For Pittsburgh, landing Aaron Rodgers is a statement of intent—a belief that this grizzled, gifted quarterback can still lead them to the promised land in 2025.
