Aaron Rodgers joining the Pittsburgh Steelers gives the franchise hope that it can make the jump from playoff contender to deep playoff run once again. Over the offseason, the team changed its identity somewhat, adding a new quarterback and a new wide receiver in DK Metcalf.
However, the efficacy of Rodgers, now on the wrong side of 40, will be something to monitor. Last year was an underwhelming season from the four-time MVP’s lofty standards. But, according to an AFC executive, there is a good chance that the Rodgers pairing in Pittsburgh works like a charm.
Could the Pittsburgh Steelers Make It Work With Aaron Rodgers?
Last year was among the worst statistical seasons of Rodgers’ legendary career. He ended with just 3,897 yards, one of the five-lowest marks of his career, while throwing just 28 touchdowns. His passer rating (90.5) was the worst in his 20-year run in the NFL.
As a result, by the end of the year, he ranked 21st on PFSN’s QB+ metric, behind the man he’s taking over from in Pittsburgh, Russell Wilson, and even rookies like Drake Maye and Bo Nix. However, there is one more angle from which to look at his season.
Jeremy Fowler of ESPN sat down with several executives to discuss the Steelers’ upcoming season. Some coaches, including members of the New York Jets staff, claimed that the move was a steal for Pittsburgh.
Fowler criticized the management in New York as far from excellent. At the same time, the former Super Bowl champion struggled to find chemistry with many in his locker room, including his best receiver, Garrett Wilson.
A veteran NFL offensive coach said, “He’s still throwing the s*** out of the ball, honestly. He’s the best quarterback they’ve had since [Ben Roethlisberger]. We will see how the body holds up, but I think he’s going to help them immensely.”
Another executive from the AFC side of the bracket believed the biggest question mark was the mobility, as Rodgers was severely limited in that regard last season. However, he did have some positives to note as well.
Aaron Rodgers’ 2024 Stats:
3,897 yards
28 TDs
11 INTs
63% comp
90.5 rating in 17 games#Steelers #NFL pic.twitter.com/fSaZbsDqHe— The Standard (@TheStandard412) June 5, 2025
“He helps them with the plus arm strength and the field vision from the pocket. They haven’t had that. I’m not sure that will be enough, but the offense will be at least respectable.” Last year, with Wilson and Justin Fields holding down the fort, the Steelers ranked 25th on PFSN’s Offense+ metric.
One would hope Rodgers could give them a better year than that. But fans will find out exactly how high they can go and how that translates to wins once they take the field in September.
