Steelers Invite Aaron Rodgers' Former Big Play Packers Tight End For Tryout

The Pittsburgh Steelers made the decision to run it back with quarterback Aaron Rodgers for the 2026 NFL season. Getting to that point was not easy. While some would argue the level of difficulty was never the issue, the timeline certainly was, as Rodgers took his time before ultimately making a decision on his future. At last, Rodgers elected to return to Pittsburgh for the 2026 season, giving the Steelers one final ride with the future Hall of Fame quarterback. This time, however, it will come with a familiar face on the coaching staff, as Rodgers is reuniting with his former Green Bay Packers Head Coach Mike McCarthy.

The Steelers have made several moves this offseason to surround Rodgers with more talent. It was no secret during the 2025 campaign that Pittsburgh needed additional pass-catching weapons alongside DK Metcalf. The team addressed that need by acquiring Michael Pittman Jr. in a trade, and then moving up in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft to select wide receiver Germie Bernard.

In addition, the Steelers already have tight ends Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington in place to help support the passing attack. On Tuesday, Steelers insider Mark Kaboly reported that Rodgers' former teammate, veteran tight end Robert Tonyan, was in Pittsburgh for a tryout, potentially adding another familiar target to the offense.

"Steelers had tight end Robert Tonyan in for a tryout today," Kaboly said. "Tonyan played five seasons in Green Bay with Aaron Rodgers, with the first three with Mike McCarthy."

Tonyan began his NFL career with the Green Bay Packers in 2018 and remained with the organization through the 2022 season, spending all five years alongside Rodgers. During that span, Tonyan appeared in 68 regular-season games and carved out a productive role in the passing game. 

Over his time in Green Bay, Tonyan totaled 137 receptions for 1,437 yards and 17 touchdowns, emerging at one point as one of Rodgers’ more reliable red-zone targets. His breakout 2020 season in particular showcased his ability to find the end zone and contribute as a vertical threat from the tight end position.

In that season, Tonyan scored 11 touchdowns on just 59 targets. He posted a 74.6 percent success rate when targeted, showing strong efficiency as a reliable pass catcher in the Packers’ offense. 

Steelers Would Get Some Invaluable Experience If They Sign Tonyan

However, questions remain about his recent production, as he has not been as impactful since the 2023 season. Even so, he brings valuable experience to the table. Tonyan has also appeared in six playoff games and contributed in postseason action, giving him a track record in high-leverage situations. That reliability could make him a useful addition to Pittsburgh’s revamped offensive setup.

Now 32 years old, Tonyan is looking to revive that chemistry with Rodgers, this time in Pittsburgh. After his run with the Packers ended in 2022, the veteran tight end is aiming to earn a roster spot with the Steelers and reconnect with his former quarterback in a new setting. Steelers fans will closely watch to see what ultimately happens with his tryout and whether it leads to a roster spot. It is certainly an eye-opening update coming out of minicamp.

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