The offseason saga between Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers is still alive and well. While the quarterback does appear to have narrowed his options down to one team, the player has publicly declared that his focus lies away from football for the time being.
During a recent interview, though, Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur has stated his belief that Rodgers will be wearing black and gold come September.
‘I Would Fully Expect Him to be a Pittsburgh Steeler’ – Matt LaFleur Speaks on Aaron Rodgers
While Rodgers is yet to make up his mind on his NFL future, there have been plenty of signs that the quarterback would like to join head coach Mike Tomlin in Pittsburgh. Rodgers is known to have visited the Steelers’ building and met with coaches and staff members, and was pictured working out with Steelers receiver DK Metcalf.
Rodgers has been very open about the fact that he isn’t committed to continuing his career, with retirement a very real possibility. Nevertheless, LaFleur has stated that he expects the four-time NFL MVP to play in 2025.
During an appearance on “Up & Adams,” LaFleur was asked if Tomlin had reached out to him for information regarding the quarterback. The Green Bay head coach revealed that no one from the Steelers had contacted him, including Tomlin and Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.
“No [Tomlin hasn’t contacted him], nothing. Neither has Arthur, Arthur Smith, their OC. I haven’t heard from either of those guys in regards to him. I’m pretty sure they know what they’re doing; I’m sure they’re confident in what they’re doing, and I would fully expect him to be a Pittsburgh Steeler.”
Has Mike Tomlin asked Coach Matt Lafleur about Aaron Rodgers??? 🤔
"I fully expect him to be a Pittsburgh Steeler…"
— Kay Adams (@heykayadams)
Is Rodgers on His Way to Pittsburgh?
The lack of alternative movement from the Steelers would suggest that they are also confident of getting their guy. The team had several opportunities to add a quarterback in the draft, but waited until round six, after passing on several veteran options in free agency.
Given Rodgers’ age (41), it’s not too surprising that he would choose to take his time before signing. In 2024, Rodgers caused a stir by booking a trip to Egypt instead of attending OTAs with the New York Jets. The quarterback has stated publicly that he is dealing with some personal issues that are important to him, and the Steelers have stated that they are aware of the situation.
The Steelers have a roster full of experienced veterans who want to win now, and it’s highly unlikely that the team would be comfortable heading into the season with its current quarterback room. Rodgers would be a great fit for the franchise and would put the Steelers back into the “2025 contenders” conversation, should he sign.