In a recent episode of “The Pat McAfee Show,” Aaron Rodgers’ close friend and former teammate A.J. Hawk revealed that the four-time MVP thinks very highly of Pittsburgh.
That’s not the first time that Rodgers’ affection for the organization has come up on the show, though — Rodgers himself declared his love for the city during an episode in 2021.
A.J. Hawk Reveals Aaron Rodgers’ Love For Pittsburgh
As Rodgers continues to make up his mind on his future, news broke recently that the veteran quarterback had visited the Steelers at the team’s facility. Rodgers was said to have met with head coach Mike Tomlin, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, training staff, and several front-office members.
The meeting was reported to have gone well, but with no agreement reached between the two parties, speculation continues. Asked for his thoughts on the visit, Hawk revealed that his former teammate is very fond of the organization.
“Well, I do know that he actually really likes all the Pittsburgh staff. He loves the staff, the front office, everything about Pittsburgh. The people there, that’s what makes the Steelers, the Steelers, don’t you think?
From the top, down, I think he definitely loves all them.”
"The Vikings had the opportunity to completely close the door on Aaron Rodgers and they didn't..
I know that Aaron Rodgers loves everybody in that Pittsburgh Steelers building" ~ @OfficialAJHawk#PMSLive pic.twitter.com/bWp42Njv6D
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) March 28, 2025
Hawk’s revealing ramble about his friend is a significant insight into Rodgers’ state of mind, given how closed off the quarterback has been throughout the offseason. McAfee can be seen gesturing to his team as he realizes the potential significance of what Hawk was saying.
Rodgers Declares Love for Mike Tomlin and the City of Pittsburgh
Though Rodgers has been a relative recluse throughout the ongoing saga surrounding his future, he hasn’t always been that way. During another episode of the same show, back in September 2021, Rodgers was very open about his respect and admiration for Mike Tomlin.
“I have a ton of respect for Mike, I think he’s a fantastic coach.” He continued: “I love the way that he leads; I love the way that he talks after games. He always seems to keep things really even-keeled. And he looks like someone that the players love playing for.”
That may have been in 2021, but Rodgers’ enormous respect for Tomlin is clear. The Steelers head coach is now the longest-tenured head coach in the NFL, having taken over the team in 2007. When you consider how volatile the NFL can be in terms of job security, to have coached the same team for 18 years is truly remarkable.
Rodgers has a decision to make in the coming weeks, with the 2025 NFL Draft fast approaching. And while they appear to be making progress with their No. 1 target, the Steelers will have some decisions of their own to make if things drag out much longer.