The Pittsburgh Steelers have been entangled in a saga involving Aaron Rodgers all offseason. The Steelers made the bold decision to move on from pursuing Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, choosing instead to focus on the 41-year-old quarterback for the 2025 season. Pittsburgh clearly didn’t view Fields or Wilson as the players who could break the team’s playoff win drought, so they shifted their attention to Rodgers. While the quarterback continues to take his time with his decision, all signs are pointing toward him signing with the Steelers for the upcoming season.
Frank Franklin II / ap photo
Former New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers nods to acknowledge someone speaking in his direction.
As Steelers fans anxiously await Rodgers’ final choice, many are left wondering how much drama and headaches the future Hall of Famer could bring to the Steel City. While the anticipation builds, there’s been a consistent undercurrent of optimism from Rodgers' former teammates. Instead of the typical negativity surrounding a star player like Rodgers, much of the feedback from his ex-teammates has been overwhelmingly positive. Steelers fans are slowly beginning to feel more confident about the possibility of Rodgers leading their team.
On Wednesday, Rodgers' former teammate, linebacker Jamien Sherwood, spoke out about the powerful impact Rodgers had on the New York Jets during their two seasons together. Sherwood praised Rodgers for his leadership, work ethic, and ability to uplift those around him. As Pittsburgh continues to wait for confirmation, the support from players like Sherwood only adds to the growing optimism that Rodgers could be the one to lead the Steelers back to glory in 2025.
"Aaron Rodgers was a great person, a great player obviously," Sherwood said. "He taught everybody in this building a lot, just during the two years he was here. I can say he helped create a standard for myself, and those other guys on offense. So he really, basically, left a mark on all of us. He taught us all so much in a short span of time that we can all carry the rest of our lives, the rest of our football careers. So, he meant a lot to us, I'll say that."
It’s fascinating to hear the different narratives from players who have actually shared a locker room with Rodgers. While Rodgers often makes headlines for his unconventional ways, his legacy as a four-time MVP and one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time is undeniable.
AP
Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin meets with former New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers after a game during the 2024 NFL season.
He’s a complex figure, known for his unique practices—many would describe them as eccentric or even "hippie-like"—but Rodgers doesn’t care about what others think. Whether it’s his infamous darkness retreat or his unorthodox training routines, he marches to the beat of his own drum.
That’s why so many Steelers fans have been hesitant about bringing Rodgers to Pittsburgh. He’s such a polarizing figure that it’s hard to imagine the attention and drama he would bring. Even before officially signing with the Steelers for 2025, Rodgers has already started generating headlines, which has left some fans on edge. It’s understandable—Steeler Nation has a history of being wary of distractions, and Rodgers’ presence could bring a whole new level of media frenzy.
Steelers Would Get A Strong Leader In Aaron Rodgers
However, hearing positive stories from his former teammates provides a sense of relief for Steelers fans. Players like Sherwood have painted a picture of Rodgers as a strong leader, someone who can elevate those around him despite his unconventional approach. These personal accounts help ease the concern, giving fans hope that the future Hall of Famer could indeed be the piece Pittsburgh needs to finally return to playoff contention.
Sean M. Haffey / Getty Images
Former Green Bay Packers' quarterback Aaron Rodgers looks on during a professional football game on the road.
Now, Steelers fans will sit back and watch as the quarterback situation unfolds. Regardless of whether Rodgers decides to join the team, Pittsburgh is likely to explore quarterback options in the upcoming draft. With the 2025 offseason shaping up to be a pivotal one for the franchise, it’s clear that the decision at quarterback will play a huge role in determining the team’s future. The coming months promise to be filled with uncertainty and intrigue as the Steelers weigh their options and prepare for what could be a game-changing season.
#SteelerNation
