The Pittsburgh Steelers kicked off Organized Team Activities on Tuesday. While this is always an exciting time for fans to watch and monitor as the season inches closer, it’s important to remember that OTAs are voluntary offseason workouts. Still, players and coaches were back on the field, and the energy around the team was noticeable as preparations for 2025 quietly began.
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Former New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers nods to acknowledge someone speaking in his direction.
One of the biggest storylines hanging over Day 1 of OTAs was Aaron Rodgers. The Steelers' current quarterback room includes Mason Rudolph, Will Howard, and Skylar Thompson, but speculation continues to swirl about Rodgers possibly joining the team for the 2025 season. Many believe it is just a matter of time before he announces his plans. If he does come to Pittsburgh, it would dramatically shift the team's outlook. If not, it appears Rudolph is in line to be the starter.
After Tuesday's practice, Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth was asked about the Rodgers rumors during an interview with Ray Fittipaldo. His response came off as awkward and vague in the eyes of Fittipaldo, leading some to wonder if he knew more than he was letting on. Whether intentional or not, Freiermuth’s reaction only fueled more speculation and raised eyebrows across Steeler Nation.
"Obviously he’s been in the league for 20 years," Freiermuth said. "He’s seen everything and done everything. He’s been there and done that. He won a Super Bowl and MVPs. He probably doesn’t need OTAs, but it would be cool to work with him and get those reps."
Freiermuth spoke about the Rodgers saga and admitted it would be awesome to have him on the team and participating in OTAs.
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Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth speaks to the media.
However, he acknowledged that’s not the case right now, as Rodgers has yet to make his plans official or offer any clarity about his future. According to Fittipaldo, what came next in the interview was particularly awkward.
"But at the end of the day, when he decides to come — if he decides to come — we’ll get to work regardless," said Freiermuth. "It will be great — if he comes — to learn from him and get to pick his brain. We’ll see what happens."
It seems Fittipaldo found this portion of the interview awkward because Freiermuth was simply voicing what every Steelers fan has been thinking for weeks—confusion and uncertainty about who the team’s starting quarterback will be in 2025. Freiermuth's honest response reflected the same questions fans have been asking themselves.
While the team has publicly stated they’re comfortable moving forward with Rudolph as the starter, the vibe around the organization suggests they’re still holding out hope for a bigger move such as Rodgers. Not many in the national media seem to buy the idea that Rudolph is truly Pittsburgh’s first choice. The overwhelming belief is that if Rodgers decides to come to Pittsburgh, he instantly becomes the starter and drastically shifts the team's outlook.
Steelers Feel As If Aaron Rodgers Can Take Them Far In 2025
It’s clear the Steelers believe Rodgers gives them their best chance to compete at a high level in 2025, especially in a loaded AFC. Until he makes a decision, though, the team remains in a strange holding pattern that’s beginning to wear thin on fans and players alike.
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Aaron Rodgers warms up before the New York Jets' preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Steelers fans have grown tired of the ongoing Rodgers saga. The silence, the rumors, and the endless speculation have all become exhausting. But the reality is, Rodgers is reportedly working through some personal matters and isn't ready to make a final call just yet.
As frustrating as the wait may be, the Steelers are trying to remain patient, knowing that if Rodgers does choose them, it could be a franchise-altering decision for the 2025 season. Until then, the uncertainty lingers, and players like Freiermuth are left answering questions that no one inside or outside the building truly has the answers to.
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