The Pittsburgh Steelers believe they will get a much better version of Aaron Rodgers than the one they saw on film for the first half of the New York Jets season.
Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated says the team did a deep dive into Rodgers’ game, and their study came away with a lot more optimism than they initially had.
“Their study of Rodgers showed a little more than even they expected. Early in the 2024 season, the Achilles, and a hamstring injury to follow, clearly hampered him. But as time wore on, even with the Jets struggling, the Steelers saw Rodgers returning to form. In the Jets’ Halloween game against the Texans, he made a few big-time back-shoulder throws. He played well in both Dolphins games. In Week 16 against the Jaguars, Pittsburgh saw vintage Rodgers, with a late go-ahead touchdown throw to Davante Adams really standing out," Breer wrote.
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.