Despite a lengthy wait, the Pittsburgh Steelers now have a true starting quarterback at their disposal. Aaron Rodgers recently signed a one-year deal worth up to just under $20 million, as the veteran quarterback is more than likely entering the final year of his career.

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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.
With Rodgers officially in Pittsburgh, fans can expect to get their first glimpse at the veteran practicing in team periods during the start of training camp. Rodgers has taken things slow prior to this point in the offseason, as Head Coach Mike Tomlin reportedly wanted to see the former New York Jets quarterback focus primarily on the playbook and developing a relationship with the Steelers' offensive weapons. With excitement continuing to grow towards the start of the upcoming season, Steelers legend Ben Roethlisberger took a moment to share his thoughts as to what fans may expect out of the future Hall of Fame quarterback.
"He won't even be thinking about the Achilles this year," Roethlisberger stated. "I think you will get a better Aaron this year. Even though you're older, I think you will get a better Aaron this year than you did last year. Just because the thought process of the Achilles -- what I can do, what can I not do, I don't think he will think about it at all."
Roethlisberger then went further into depth about the Achilles, stating how hard it would be for Rodgers to re-aggravate the injury.
"Outside of Deshaun Watson, I don't think I have ever heard of anybody re-injuring an Achilles," Roethlisberger explained. "I guess in saying all of that, it will be exciting for Aaron and exciting for fans to see."
Roethlisberger, who spent his entire 18-year career in Pittsburgh, was an elite quarterback and is widely regarded as one of the greatest Steelers of all-time. A six-time Pro Bowler, Roethlisberger played a crucial role in both of Pittsburgh's Super Bowl victories during the 2000s. As speculation continues to circulate around Rodgers' expectations next season, Roethlisberger remains optimistic that the veteran quarterback will thrive.

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Former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger holds up his jersey as he gets picked by the team in the 2004 NFL Draft.
Rodgers is fresh off a failed two-year tenure with the Jets, as his time in New York is highlighted by injuries and mediocrity. As Rodgers continues his preparation towards the start of training camp this season, the veteran quarterback is expected to continue developing a relationship with players on both the offensive and defensive side of the ball.
Steelers' Aaron Rodgers Shares High Praise For Pittsburgh Captain Cam Heyward
As Rodgers continues to get situated in the Steel City, the former Jet continues to further develop a relationship with multiple key players on the team. One name in particular who continues to receiver high praise from Rodgers is Cam Heyward. Heyward, an AP All-Pro in 2024, is an elite defensive tackle who has thrived throughout every stage of his career. A 14-year veteran, Heyward is expected to make a massive impact on the Steelers' defense once again this season, as he reportedly played a major role in Rodgers' signing with Pittsburgh as well.
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Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman Cameron Heyward (#97) stands on the field as the team works out during a 2023 training camp practice in Latrobe, PA.
Heyward may prove to play a big role off the field additionally, as the veteran will be an excellent mentor for rookie Derrick Harmon. Harmon, a first-round selection in this year's NFL Draft, is a promising rookie who is expected to be a major beneficiary of Heyward's presence. With both Heyward and Rodgers continuing to prepare for the start of training camp, fans should continue to keep a close eye on both veterans throughout the offseason.
Do you agree with Roethlisberger's thoughts on the upcoming season for Rodgers? Will Rodgers have enough left in the tank to help Pittsburgh make a deep postseason run? Be sure to comment below!
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