Steelers' Mike Tomlin Exposes The Real Truth About Waiting For Aaron Rodgers

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a number of significant moves on both sides of the ball this offseason -- most notably signing four-time MVP and future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers to a one-year deal. The contract is worth up to just under $20 million and Rodgers will enter what is more than likely the final season of his prestigious 20 year career. He joins the Steelers following a horrific two-year tenure with the New York Jets, as Rodgers' time in the Big Apple was highlighted by an Achilles injury that left him sidelined for the majority of the 2023 NFL season.

Many Steelers fans voiced their frustration with the veteran quarterback prior to him signing with Pittsburgh, as Rodgers took his time in signing the one-year deal. Rumors and speculation continued to circulate throughout social media the entire offseason, as many believed that the former Jet would either sign with the Steelers, or retire. Rodgers has claimed that Head Coach Mike Tomlin played a big role in his signing with Pittsburgh, as the Steelers' long-time coach is rumored to have been in contact with Rodgers throughout the entire process.

Tomlin was recently asked for his thoughts on Rodgers' free agency process, as the legendary head coach noted it was an interesting experience for all involved. 

"I guess with experience, I've gained patience. And sometimes it's an asset. I wasn't in a hurry, trying to microwave our relationship or get-to-know," Tomlin explained. "That was the most conscious component of the discussions for me."

Tomlin's comments may not come as surprising to many, as the veteran quarterback has spoke very highly of the Steelers' head coach throughout his career. Both Tomlin and Rodgers have publicly expressed their mutual respect for each other, as Rodgers is expected to play a crucial role in 2025 under his new head coach. The veteran quarterback is past his prime, but may still prove to be an elite quarterback should he be fully recovered from the Achilles injury just two years ago.

Rodgers actually put together a solid campaign in 2024, despite all the negative media coverage, as the 20 year veteran was credited with 3,897 passing yards and 28 touchdowns throughout his final season in New York. Rodgers should benefit from having DK Metcalf as a top receiving option as well in Pittsburgh, as both Rodgers and Metcalf will look to become one of the most dangerous deep-ball duos in the league for 2025. As training camp continues to move forward, fans are encouraged to keep a close eye on the veteran quarterback's performance throughout the remainder of the offseason.

Steelers' Mike Tomlin May Finally Have The QB He Needs To Win In The Postseason Again

Patience is something that Tomlin has had to exhibit since the 2016 NFL season. The Steelers haven't had a playoff win since then, and Rodgers may be the key to ending that drought. At 41 years old, he's the league's oldest active player, but many argue that he will provide the Steelers with a level of quarterback play they haven't experienced since the days of Ben Roethlisberger. Rodgers likely won't need to be his former MVP self for Pittsburgh to succeed in 2025, but a smart, cerebral player that can mange the offense, should be more than enough. 

Tomlin and Rodgers enter the upcoming season with new weapons on offense such as tight end Jonnu Smith, rookie running back Kaleb Johnson, and veteran players in Robert Woods and Kenneth Gainwell. Combine those talents with the likes of Metcalf, Jaylen Warren, Calvin Austin III, Pat Freiermuth and Roman Wilson, and the Steelers should be ready to make another deep playoff push come January barring any significant injuries.

How do you think Tomlin and Rodgers' relationship will play out this season? Comment below!