NFL Hall of Famer Steve Young is critical of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ match with Aaron Rodgers, who he does not see as a philosophical fit for the offense.
Rodgers has become a quick-game thrower, something that Arthur Smith’s offenses do have, but Young could see the team getting too reliant on that fact and falling into mediocrity.
“It’s not a perfect match... for who he wants to be and what the Steelers are doing, even philosophically,” Young said. “So they’re going to have to figure out how to fit together. And you saw what happened with the Jets — didn’t fit very well. And I’m worried that they might not fit perfectly with Pittsburgh. If your processing power is better than average, you want the ball out. So you need. So you need people that can get into space... go get people who are talented, who can get in there, find the space in the defense, and get the ball out."
Rodgers had 28 touchdowns to 11 interceptions in 2024. He went just 5-12 in his starts with the Jets, and even after they acquired All-Pro wide receiver Davante Adams, went just 3-8. It was a tough season for Rodgers, who also had multiple leg injuries.
The Steelers think something remains in the tank for the former four-time MVP. They zeroed in on him as their target, as a result, especially after missing on re-signing Justin Fields.
Now, Rodgers will be with the Steelers on a deal that will not break the bank, and could still land them another wide receiver to help Rodgers.