Former Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Max Starks believes Aaron Rodgers will be successful in Pittsburgh if he can command the fanbase within the Steelers’ tradition.
“I think the biggest thing is ingratiate yourself with the fans, with the city,” Starks said on SiriusXM NFL Radio. “Don’t try and separate yourself or silo yourself because this city is woven into the fabric of the team as well as the players. You’re gonna be out and about. There’s no quiet place that you’re looking for in Pittsburgh that doesn’t have Steeler fans crawling all over it. You have to, first of all, accept, embrace, and associate with the fans in Pittsburgh because the city’s identity is directly tied with the success and shortcomings of the Pittsburgh Steelers.”
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, 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 had zeroed in on him as their target, and even though they had to wait a while, Rodgers is now set to be their starting quarterback.
In his latest interview on the Joe Rogan Experience, Rodgers may have revealed and hinted at the issues he hopes to resolve in his personal life, which caused his wait.
Rodgers said multiple people in his life are dealing with serious illnesses, including cancer.
“I’ve figured it out during the last year when I’ve been in the weeds with these people who are close to me that have cancer,” Rodgers said.
That is taking a personal toll on Rodgers, who discussed non-conventional treatment options on the podcast.
Rodgers seems to have those items resolved, and the Steelers will have him as their starting quarterback, with Mason Rudolph set as the backup.