Is Aaron Rodgers Playing in the Buccaneers-Steelers Preseason Game? Latest on the Star QB’s Status

After a ton of fanfare, the Pittsburgh Steelers finally found their quarterback in Aaron Rodgers. Going almost a decade without a playoff win to their credit, the desperation from the Steelers was palpable, despite their continued success in the regular season. As a result, they went after a four-time MVP to potentially take them over the hump.

However, the fan base has to wait a while before they get to see their new man behind center take the field in the iconic black and gold. With a roster comprised of veterans, head coach Mike Tomlin made it clear that they would be getting limited reps in the preseason, with a bunch of names off the depth chart in Week 1. But, squaring off against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 2, will the status of Rodgers see a change?

Will Aaron Rodgers Suit Up Against the Buccaneers?

Nearly 20 years into his career, there isn’t much that Rodgers hasn’t accomplished on the gridiron. One of the most prolific quarterbacks of all time, he has the hardware to prove his standing as one of the all-time greats.

As a result, with his age, experience, and recent injury history, it made sense for Pittsburgh to take a cautious approach with his play in the preseason, limiting his workload ahead of opening night.

However, that cautious approach is set to continue in Week 2 when they battle Tampa Bay. “I’m going to play this preseason game very much like we did the first one,” Tomlin confirmed to ESPN.

“In terms of participation, the same collection of guys that were held out the last time will comprise the guys that are held out this time.” So, expect veterans like T.J. Watt, DK Metcalf, and Rodgers to headline the group on the sidelines.

Rodgers, who has been particularly against playing a lot of snaps in the preseason, wasn’t against the idea this time around. Before Week 1, he made it clear, “I don’t think it’s in the plan for me to play this week, but whatever Mike wants to do, I’m fully on board.”

Em coletiva, Tomlin avisou que veteranos seguem de folga na pré-temporada: Rodgers, DK, Warren, Freiermuth, Jonnu Smith, Seumalo, TJ, Highsmith,
Cam Heyward, Queen, JPJr, Slay, Ramsey

Deve haver mais ausências por lesão, mas o técnico ainda não descartou a presença no jogo. pic.twitter.com/3ncjcubcID

— Black Yellow Brasil (@blackyellowbr) August 14, 2025

But for a team trying to break out of its playoff losing streak, precaution is the name of the game, and for a quarterback who lost his entire year to an Achilles injury just two years ago, Tomlin’s caution is wholly justified.

However, on the other side of the spectrum, integrating a quarterback into a new system with new weapons is going to take some adjustments. And without NFL action under their belt, those kinks might play out in real time during the regular season.