As the Pittsburgh Steelers begin their 2025 organized team activities (OTAs), questions loom about the value of these practices with Aaron Rodgers still unsigned. With Mason Rudolph currently leading the offense, doubts are being raised about how effective preparation can be without a confirmed starting quarterback.
Analyst Slams Steelers’ OTAs Amid Ongoing Aaron Rodgers Uncertainty
NFL analyst Nick Wright didn’t hold back his criticism. “Is anything positive going to come of that from the offensive side of the ball if you’re a Pittsburgh Steeler?” he asked.
Wright questioned whether players would genuinely engage in OTAs knowing that Rodgers remains the target. “Are you really trying to get on the same page with Mason Rudolph? Does timing matter?” he continued. His message was clear: if Rodgers is expected to eventually join, the current work may be meaningless.
Wright further challenged the Steelers’ internal messaging. “How do they message it? Do they lie to him? Do they say, ‘OK, we all know our real quarterback’s not here?’”
“’Well, Mason’s our quarterback,’” Wright said sarcastically. “Honestly, how do they message it?”
“It’s a waste of time.”
As of now, Rodgers remains unsigned. Although his visit to the team in March was discreet, no signing has occurred yet, and his presence at any of the upcoming OTA sessions remains in doubt.
The Steelers are scheduled to hold only six OTA practices in 2025, beginning on Tuesday, May 27. These voluntary workouts may lack urgency or energy, as the offensive unit awaits clarity. After OTAs, the team will hold its mandatory minicamp, though it’s worth noting Rodgers skipped the New York Jets’ minicamp last year to travel to Egypt.
Without Rodgers, the Steelers’ current quarterback room includes Rudolph, Skylar Thompson, and rookie Will Howard. The absence of a clear franchise quarterback raises concerns not only about team chemistry but also about the overall value of these offseason sessions. If Rodgers does sign, Thompson may likely be the odd man out.
A historical reference adds perspective: In 2009, Brett Favre didn’t arrive in Minnesota until mid-August, causing a reported “schism” between him and incumbent Tarvaris Jackson. That tension disappeared once Favre began throwing passes. The same might hold true in Pittsburgh but first, Rodgers must arrive.
Until then, the Steelers are forced to proceed with uncertainty, hoping preparation with Rudolph will not be in vain. Pittsburgh opens its season against the Jets on Sept. 7, and there are plenty of questions the Steelers still need to answer.