PITTSBURGH, P.A.— After months of speculation and ongoing developments, former Jets and Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has officially informed the Steelers of his intent to sign a one-year deal with the organization on Friday ahead of Pittsburgh’s mandatory minicamp next week.
Though signs have pointed to Rodgers landing in the Steel City throughout the offseason, the four-time MVP’s official commitment finally addresses Pittsburgh’s need at quarterback and gives rookie draft pick Will Howard valuable time to learn and develop under one of the most gifted players of the 21st century.
Reports of fruitful meetings between Rodgers and Steelers leadership date back to March, when head coach Mike Tomlin described their conversations as “really productive.”
While Rodgers’ flair for the dramatic may have tested Steelers fans’ patience, Tomlin’s willingness to give Rodgers time was a decisive factor in his eventual decision.
As Adam Schefter reported, “The Steelers never wavered in their belief that Aaron Rodgers would eventually sign with Pittsburgh. Mike Tomlin loomed large throughout this entire situation... He is a major reason Rodgers will be a Steeler.”
Other teams like the Vikings and Giants were also linked to Rodgers, but Minnesota appears committed to 2024 first-round pick J.J. McCarthy, while New York not only selected Jaxson Dart 25th overall in April but also signed Russell Wilson—further clearing the path for Rodgers to land in Pittsburgh.
The financial details of Rodgers’ deal with the Steelers have yet to be disclosed, but he’s been clear that compensation isn’t his priority: “I told every single one of the teams, it ain’t about the money. I said I’ll play for $10 million. Whatever,” Rodgers said during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show.
Rodgers will aim to rebound after a disappointing 5-12 season last year. His overall 6-12 record in New York will carry a lingering “what-if” feeling, as his tenure as a Jet took a massive blow when he tore his Achilles just three snaps into his time at MetLife Stadium.
In a scheduling twist almost too good to be true, the Steelers will open their 2025 season on the road in East Rutherford—facing none other than the Jets. The matchup sets the stage for a highly anticipated homecoming for Rodgers as he also squares off against former Steeler and current Jets quarterback Justin Fields, promising a game rich with compelling storylines.