Steelers Don't Anticipate Aaron Rodgers To Be At OTAs; Mandatory Minicamp Now Likely

As the Pittsburgh Steelers gear up for the 2025 NFL season, the quarterback position remains a topic of intense speculation. With Organized Team Activities (OTAs) commencing on May 27th, all eyes are on Aaron Rodgers and his potential arrival in Pittsburgh. 

Mark Kaboly, Steelers correspondent for The Pat McAfee Show, recently engaged with fans in a Q&A style forum on X (formerly Twitter), addressing offseason concerns and rumors surrounding Pittsburgh’s quarterback situation. During the session, a user posed a straightforward question that’s been on the minds of many in regards to Rodgers potentially not signing by Tuesday. Would that mean Rodgers is less likely to become a Steeler?

"Absolutely not," Kaboly responded. "It would be a surprise to me that he would show up to OTAs. I do think we will see him at minicamp on June 10."

This no-nonsense reply from Kaboly immediately calmed some nerves within the fan base. His statement suggests that those inside the organization haven’t been expecting Rodgers to participate in voluntary offseason activities, and that his absence from OTAs shouldn’t be viewed as a red flag or sign of disinterest. Instead, Kaboly reaffirmed the belief that Rodgers is still very much in play for the Steelers, just operating on his own timeline.

This comment also reflects a wider league reality when it comes to veteran quarterbacks of Rodgers’ caliber — offseason attendance isn’t guaranteed, nor is it always necessary. However, for a team like Pittsburgh, coming off a transitional year and attempting to rebuild its offense under Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith, even voluntary absences can draw attention. Kaboly’s insight is valuable because it clarifies that the organization itself isn’t interpreting Rodgers’ absence as a setback or a closed door, at least not yet. Despite Rodgers' claim that he's currently dealing with personal matters that are keeping him away from the game of football, he maintains open communication with the Steelers, expressing a willingness to join the team once his personal commitments are addressed. 

Currently, the team has Mason Rudolph, who re-signed with the Steelers on a two-year, $8 million deal, and rookie Will Howard, drafted in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. If Rodgers joins, he would presumably take the starting role, pushing Rudolph and Howard down the depth chart. However, if Rodgers decides against signing, the Steelers may need to rely on their existing quarterbacks. That also includes a young veteran in Skylar Thompson.

Steelers Are Hoping Rodgers Signs Sooner Rather Than Later

The Steelers are hopeful Rodgers will make a decision before mandatory minicamp kicks off on June 10th. Head Coach Mike Tomlin has remained relatively tight-lipped publicly, but has continued to express confidence in the team’s direction, regardless of who lines up under center. Still, there’s no denying that Rodgers’ presence would dramatically reshape expectations for the 2025 season. Not only would he bring Hall of Fame-caliber talent to the offense, but also a wealth of experience that could elevate the play of those around him — particularly younger skill players like Pat Freiermuth, Calvin Austin III, and Roman Wilson.

Until then, uncertainty looms. The Steelers’ front office, coaching staff, and fan base are left in a familiar, but frustrating position — waiting for a decision from a player who operates on his own clock. Rodgers has maintained that personal obligations have taken precedence, and while there is sympathy for that, the longer this drags out, the more complicated things become for Pittsburgh’s preseason planning.

If Rodgers doesn’t report by minicamp, expect the pressure on Rudolph and Howard to intensify, and the outside noise to grow louder. The Steelers have already made several offseason moves with the assumption that a quarterback like Rodgers could be in the mix. Now, all eyes are on whether that gamble pays off.

When do you think Rodgers will show up, if at all? Comment below!

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