Steelers Insider Detailed The True Importance Of Aaron Rodgers Showing Up For OTAs

The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially started up Organized Team Activities (OTAs) with one specific key player that was not there last year. Instead of skipping out on that phase again, Aaron Rodgers has signed his contract and is officially participating in this phase of the offseason in 2026. Previously, the thought was that he didn't want these reps in the offseason, as he knows the playbook well enough, and understands what it takes to be a professional. There was also the argument that him being gone would open the door wide open for the young guys to get the reps they need to thrive. 

However, there is another side to this story as well. While making an appearance on Randy Baumann and the DVE Morning Show, insider Mike DeFabo brought up the point of Rodgers not needing OTAs, but he then explained why it is still important for him to be present and active during these practices.

"Wide receivers need Aaron Rodgers. Roman Wilson needs Aaron Rodgers," DeFabo said. "Michael Pittman Jr. needs Aaron Rodgers to be there. Germie Bernard needs Aaron Rodgers to be there. So, you know, I think that right now, they probably have a pretty complete receiving corps and now, to me, I think it's more so a matter of developing a chemistry and connection."

It was clear that there was a severe disconnect between Rodgers and his receivers in the 2025 season. His top target was the backup running back in Kenneth Gainwell. By December, two of the top three wide receivers on the team were midseason signings with nearly everyone else being thrown into the doghouse.  

Now, Pittsburgh's receiving core is almost entirely revamped. It traded for Michael Pittman Jr. to be the new WR2 before using a second-round pick on Germie Bernard to hopefully fill the WR3 role. On top of that, the offensive line has changes at nearly every position, whether it's a new player, or a previous starter in a different role. Needless to say, it would not be ideal if Rodgers skipped OTAs again.

Rodgers himself is very particular about how he wants things done. With the very limited time that he had with the Steelers' offense in the 2025 offseason, guys like Roman Wilson were not able to figure him out exactly, and that was what led to a lot of roster adjustments. It seems like Rodgers learned from that mistake and made the decision to show up earlier than he did then.

Whether this works or not for the team is to be seen. The hope is that Rodgers and everyone else gets on the same page early, especially the young wideouts. Rodgers has developed a reputation for having strong disdain to those that are still on their rookie contracts due to the fact that they are too busy learning the ropes of the NFL to be able to truly work things his way. Participating in OTAs should hopefully help with that issue, and that all starts on Monday.

Steelers Fans Are Split Entering The 2026 Regular Season

At multiple times during the 2025 season, the fans' restlessness was very apparent and obvious. They have also made it very clear how they feel about Rodgers and Head Coach Mike McCarthy wearing black and gold in 2026. Mediocrity will not be tolerated. If things start get bad, there might be a road team takeover at Acrisure Stadium like when they played the Green Bay Packers or angry chants demanding change like when the Steelers hosted the Buffalo Bills last season.

What do you think about Rodgers showing up for OTAs this time? Do you think this will truly be helpful? Let us know on X at @Steelers_ChrisB.

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