After months of flirting with the idea, quarterback Aaron Rodgers officially signed a one-year, $13.65 million contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The future Hall of Fame quarterback wasted no time, showing up for the first day of mandatory minicamp on June 10.
Some have questioned whether Rodgers should have returned, with many wondering if another unsuccessful season might tarnish his legacy. Those same critics have pointed to his pride, suggesting he wants to prove he still has what it takes. However, Pittsburgh’s newly signed QB1 disagrees with that notion.
Aaron Rodgers Gets Candid on Why He Chose to Return for 21st NFL Season
According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, Rodgers is adamant that his pride and ego aren’t pushing this latest return. He says he doesn’t need to keep playing, but it is what is best for his soul.
“I don’t need it for my ego, I don’t need it, to keep playing … This was a decision that was best for my soul,” Rodgers said.
Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers on playing in 2025: “I don’t need it for my ego, I don’t need it, to keep playing … This was a decision that was best for my soul.” Mentions again the opportunity to play for Mike Tomlin.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) June 10, 2025
Entering his 21st NFL season, Rodgers sounds like someone who refuses to let go of the game. He knows how blessed his life has been over the last two decades and wants to continue playing the game he cherishes. It’s difficult to fault him for that.
Steelers Look to Improve on Last Season’s 10-7 Record
Last season, the Steelers won 10 games using a combination of Justin Fields and Russell Wilson under center. Even at 41 years old, Rodgers should provide the team with an upgrade at the most critical position in football.
Unfortunately, the Steelers lost a several key offensive weapons this offseason, including running back Najee Harris and wide receiver George Pickens. They have replaced them with rookie running back Kaleb Johnson and former Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf, but this roster isn’t much better than a season ago.
Even with Rodgers officially on board, the Steelers remain massive underdogs to win the division. According to DraftKings, the Steelers are +550 to win the AFC North, trailing the Baltimore Ravens (-145) and the Cincinnati Bengals (+230).
Looking at the wider AFC, it gets even tougher to picture Rodgers leading Pittsburgh back to the Super Bowl. In addition to the Ravens and Bengals, the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, Los Angeles Chargers, and Denver Broncos all boast deeper, more talented rosters on paper.
These concerns likely explain why it took Rodgers so long to fully commit to returning this season. However, since football is such an important part of his life, it’s easy to see why he made this decision.
