Steelers' Calvin Austin III Opens Up About Private Dinner With Aaron Rodgers That Should Change Everything For Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Steelers made it clear they were pursuing Aaron Rodgers very early in the 2025 offseason. That decision was met with mixed reactions from the Steeler Nation fan base. Many fans were excited and intrigued by what the four-time league MVP could bring to Pittsburgh. On the other hand, he managed to win just five games with the New York Jets in 2024, which made others wonder if he’s washed up now at 41 years old.

The Steelers didn’t feel that way, with Head Coach Mike Tomlin leading the charge to bring Rodgers to Pittsburgh for 2025. Many were worried Rodgers would be a bad teammate or a distraction, but so far it’s been the complete opposite. Rodgers has shown professionalism and leadership that have impressed both the team and fans alike.

Steelers wide receiver Calvin Austin III shared some interesting details about his time hanging out with Rodgers at a private dinner at Nobu with the team that lasted three hours. Austin revealed this during an appearance on the Jason & John show on 92.9 FM ESPN. The dinner helped build chemistry and trust, giving the Steelers confidence in Rodgers as they head into the new season.

"Spending time at his crib, just chilling, talking and getting to know him [Aaron Rodgers]," Austin said. "We went out to Nobu. That was probably one of the best experiences. It was good food and the view was great. We probably ate for like three hours. We were just talking."

Austin said Rodgers put the wide receivers who went to Malibu to train all in a group message. That’s how the invite happened, and it’s cool to hear Austin’s perspective on how it all unfolded. 

It’s not uncommon for these types of hangouts to happen when a new player joins a team. However, many are shocked to find out just how bought in Rodgers is to building relationships with his new Steelers teammates. Even if it’s just for one season, he’s come to the Steel City on a mission to earn the trust of his new teammates.

"We weren’t even thinking about the time because we were real deal chopping it up," Austin said. "We were talking about life, what we think about things, just everything. Looking back at that, that was so pivotal going into this training camp because now I feel extremely comfortable with him… We on that level now. The chemistry and that stuff you can't measure are the things that help you win close games."

Perhaps the most exciting part of the three-hour dinner and the time Austin spent hanging out with Rodgers and his teammates is the chemistry they built. Austin said that immediately after getting to chop it up with Rodgers, he started to feel comfortable around him. Since then, he’s been able to pick Rodgers’ brain and truly learn what it takes to thrive as a wide receiver in this league.

Steelers' Calvin Austin III Expected To Thrive Playing With Aaron Rodgers In 2025

Rodgers’ experience and leadership are expected to pay off in a big way as Austin looks to build on his semi-breakout 2024 season. He was one of the bright spots for the Steelers last year, showcasing not only his elite speed but also his ability to make plays in the passing game. Austin finished the season with 36 catches for 548 yards and four touchdowns, impressive numbers in Pittsburgh’s often inconsistent offense.

With Rodgers now under center, Austin appears poised to take an even bigger leap in 2025. It is an exciting time for the Steelers fan base, and hearing about the Malibu dinner and the behind-the-scenes bonding only adds to the growing buzz around this team.

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