Rodgers wants redemption — but is Pittsburgh the right place to find it?

Aaron Rodgers is officially the new quarterback of the Pittsburgh Steelers. True to form, he took his time — perhaps more than necessary — deliberating whether to continue his NFL career or retire. His prolonged indecision left Steelers fans on edge, as many had hoped for clarity before the 2025 NFL Draft to better anticipate the team’s direction for the upcoming season.

Rodgers had been linked to several teams, including the New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings, and even the New Orleans Saints, who were left scrambling after the unexpected retirement of Derek Carr. But in the end, the veteran quarterback chose Pittsburgh, agreeing to a one-year deal worth $13.65 million, with $10 million guaranteed and a maximum value of $19.5 million. The contract also includes $5.85 million in performance and playing-time incentives.

Steelers overhaul quarterback room

Pittsburgh has made sweeping changes at quarterback. Neither of last season’s starters returned: Justin Fields signed with the New York Jets, and Russell Wilson joined the New York Giants. In the draft, the Steelers waited until Day 3 to select a quarterback, picking Will Howard in the sixth round (185th overall). The team also brought back Mason Rudolph after a stint with the Tennessee Titans and signed Skylar Thompson, formerly a backup with the Miami Dolphins.

Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, has already begun throwing during the team’s mini-training camp, signaling the start of a new chapter in his storied career.

What can Steelers fans expect from Rodgers in 2025?

Rodgers arrives in Pittsburgh seeking redemption after a frustrating stint with the New York Jets, which ended abruptly due to a ruptured Achilles tendon. Despite the Jets finishing 5–12 in his final season there, Rodgers posted solid numbers: a 63% completion rate, 3,897 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions.

At this point in his career, Rodgers has nothing left to prove. A future Hall of Famer, he has racked up 62,952 passing yards and 503 touchdowns. Ironically, 14 years ago, he led the Green Bay Packers to victory over Mike Tomlin’s Steelers in Super Bowl XLV.

The Steelers open their 2025 season with a Week 1 matchup against Rodgers’ former team, the New York Jets, at MetLife Stadium on September 7 — a showdown that will pit him against his predecessor, Justin Fields. They’ll also host the Green Bay Packers for Sunday Night Football on October 26 at Acrisure Stadium.

Steelers’ offensive weapons take shape

Pittsburgh has assembled a strong supporting cast for Rodgers. The team traded for star wide receiver DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks and will welcome back tight end Pat Freiermuth, a key locker room leader.

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