The Pittsburgh Steelers finally find themselves with a true answer at the quarterback position. After announcing that future Hall of Fame quarterback and four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers will sign a one-year deal worth up to just under $20 million, the Steelers are expected to get their first glimpse of the 20-year veteran practicing in full pads at the start of training camp. Rodgers, who is more than likely entering the final season of his career, is expected to have no problem shining throughout his first season in Pittsburgh.
Sebastian Foltz / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers prepares to make a throw as the team works out during 2025 mandatory minicamp at the UPMC Sports Complex in Pittsburgh, PA.
With the start of mandatory minicamp beginning earlier this week, many fans have continued to question why Rodgers was not present for multiple drills during the team's first official practices. Rodgers is expected to take his time easing into things. Head Coach Mike Tomlin stated earlier this week that he wanted Rodgers to focus on the playbook before getting thrown into team drills. With fans continuing to voice their frustration towards Rodgers' inability to run the team's offense early on, Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo took a moment to weigh in on the situation.
"He looks good throwing on air," Fittipaldo stated. "Donny, as you know, he didn't practice, which is a little bit of an interesting development I guess. You know, anything involving 11 on 11 or even 7 on 7, he didn't take part in, so I think we are going to find out for sure in training camp. I think the expectation is he will have the offense down pat by then, that's why Mike didn't want him down there in minicamp."
Fittipaldo then went on to speak about Rodgers' inability to run the offense early on throughout camp, claiming fans will have to wait over a month to get their first official glimpse at their new quarterback leading the team.
"But I think everyone this week wanted to see that, they wanted to see him run the offense, but I guess we got to wait until July 24th for that to happen."
Despite the frustration, Fittipaldo's comments should not come as alarming, as Rodgers is expected to be a full participant later this summer. Fresh off of a failed two-year tenure with the New York Jets, Rodgers is expected to be an excellent fit under Tomlin, as the Steelers' head coach reportedly played a major role in the quarterback's decision to come to Pittsburgh. Rodgers, 41, is a player that is far past his prime, but can still add a major boost to an underwhelming Steelers offensive unit.
Alysa Rubin / Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers' Aaron Rodgers making a throw during 2025 mandatory minicamp with DK Metcalf in the background.
Rodgers may prove to play a major role off the field as well, as the Steelers' quarterback has publicly committed to mentoring rookie quarterback Will Howard. Howard, who was selected in the sixth round of this year's NFL Draft out of Ohio State, is a promising young signal-caller that is expected to get an opportunity in the future. With Rodgers officially in Pittsburgh, the Steelers are expected to now turn their attention towards other key offensive areas lacking depth.
Steelers Expected To Add Playmaking Depth After Key Injuries
With Rodgers expected to be fully present throughout training camp, the Steelers will look to potentially add depth at both wide receiver and/or tight end. With Donald Parham Jr. suffering a brutal season-ending injury last week, the Steelers have been linked to Pro Bowl tight end Jonnu Smith. Smith, who had a career year last season with the Miami Dolphins, would prove to be an excellent replacement for Parham Jr. and would be an elite one-two punch paired with Pat Freiermuth.
Sam Navarro / Imagn Images
Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith, #9, enters the field before the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Hard Rock Stadium on Oct. 27, 2024 in Miami Gardens, Florida.
As Rodgers continues to get situated throughout his first few weeks in Pittsburgh, fans should continue to keep a close eye on the quarterback's status throughout camp. Fans may want to monitor the Steelers' activity on the free agency market as well, as Pittsburgh is widely expected to continue adding depth to key positions on offense.
Are you frustrated with Rodgers' inability to run the team's offense early on? Comment below!
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