The Pittsburgh Steelers finally got clarity at the position that has terrified the fan base all offseason. Aaron Rodgers made it official that he is signing with the Steelers to be their quarterback for the 2025 season. Before that announcement, there was widespread concern about who would lead the offense, especially after an offseason filled with uncertainty surrounding Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. The Steelers let Wilson and Fields walk in free agency. Instead they focused all of their efforts on Rodgers.
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Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) practices at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex during the 2025 minicamp, Tuesday June 10, 2025.
Rodgers is 41 years old and is coming off a disappointing season with the New York Jets, where the team managed just five wins. Still, there is a belief among many in the league that Rodgers could have enough left to make an impact. His experience and football intelligence are seen as valuable assets, particularly for a Steelers team with playoff aspirations and a young core on offense.
In a recent article by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, several NFL figures weighed in on the move and offered insight into what the Steelers are getting in Rodgers at this stage of his career. While opinions varied, there was a consistent theme that Pittsburgh is adding a veteran presence who can bring stability and elevate the offense if he can stay healthy. The decision may not be without risk, but the upside is clear for a franchise eager to return to championship contention.
"He's still throwing the s--- out of the ball, honestly," a veteran NFL offensive coach said. "He's the best quarterback they've had since [Ben Roethlisberger]. We will see how the body holds up, but I think he's going to help them immensely."
The Steelers and Mike Tomlin haven’t had true peace at the quarterback position since the day Ben Roethlisberger retired. That uncertainty has defined the past few seasons, but one veteran NFL offensive coach believes the team has finally found stability heading into 2025 with Rodgers at the helm.
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Former New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers meets with Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin after a game in Pittsburgh.
Another AFC executive weighed in, saying he expects the Steelers' offense to be more respectable than it has been in recent years. While that may not sound like overwhelming praise, it does mark a step forward for a unit that has consistently struggled to find rhythm and production since Roethlisberger's departure.
"Look, the mobility is an issue, there's no doubt," an AFC executive said. "But where he helps them is with the plus arm strength and the field vision from the pocket. They haven't had that. I'm not sure that will be enough, but the offense will be at least respectable."
After several seasons marked by inconsistency and underperformance on offense, even modest improvement would be a welcome change in Pittsburgh. With Rodgers now leading the way, the expectation is that the offense will at least bring a higher level of execution and experience to the field.
The Steelers offense in the 2024 season showed some improvement under Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith, but not enough to make a real difference when it mattered most. The unit continued to struggle in key moments, and it became clear that changes were necessary. Pittsburgh responded by reshaping both the running back and wide receiver rooms, and most notably, by bringing in Rodgers to lead the offense.
Steelers' Aaron Rodgers Has Some Weapons Around Him In The Steel City
While the addition of DK Metcalf gives the Steelers a clear number one target, there are still questions about the depth behind him. Calvin Austin III is expected to take on a larger role as the team's second wide receiver, and Roman Wilson is likely to see a real opportunity in his second year. If those young receivers can step up alongside a reliable tight end like Pat Freiermuth, the passing game could become far more balanced and dynamic.
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The Pittsburgh Steelers' defensive line attacks New York Jets' Aaron Rodgers during a regular season game in 2024.
With Rodgers commanding the offense and surrounded by a mix of proven veterans and emerging talent, the Steelers have the potential to take a big step forward in 2025. It may not be a top-tier unit overnight, but with improved execution and leadership, Pittsburgh’s offense could end up surprising a lot of people this season.
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