Former NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith is set to release his new book, ‘Turf Wars,’ this August, and in it, he takes a shot at new Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Obtained early by Awful Announcing, the book takes shots at Roger Goodell, Kirk Cousins, Jerry Jones, and others. Yet, Smith worked closely with some of the top players in the NFL, and that included Rodgers, who has advocated for wiping out much of the spring workout schedule.
Smith recalls a time when Rodgers sat at the back of Green Bay Packers meeting room disinterested from reality.
“He sat in the back row of the meeting room, issuing loud sighs before standing for a dramatic exit. An incredible quarterback, to be sure, but an even more impressive antagonist," Smith wrote.
Smith talked about Rodgers as the ‘God of Cheesehead Nation’ referring to the Packers, and that he was ‘isolated and dismissive’ whenever they would talk to one another.
None of that is a surprise, as Rodgers has been revered for some time in the NFL as a four-time MVP, and he has carried that attitude with him in public. Smith’s book brings to light that character that also looms behind the scenes.
Either way, the Steelers have bet on Rodgers as their answer in 2025. 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 Davante Adams, they went just 3-8. It was a tough season for Rodgers, who also had multiple leg injuries.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.