Aaron Rodgers' Decision Predicted to Impact 21-Year-Old NFL Record

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated May 19, 2025 2:26 PM ET

One of the biggest storylines for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2024 was that they achieved their 21st consecutive season without a losing record, which is tied with the Dallas Cowboys (1965 to 1985) for the longest streak in NFL history.

The start of this impressive feat officially began in 2004 under Bill Cowher, but a majority of it has come under Mike Tomlin, who took over in 2007.

Now, the Steelers have the opportunity to break it in 2025, but much of their chances could hinge on the decision of free agent quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

In an article for CBS Sports, Cody Benjamin predicts that with Rodgers manning the offense, the Steelers will go 10-7, but without him, they are instead destined for a 7-10 record.

Of course, Rodgers' free agency decision has become nothing short of a rollercoaster, as he continues to drag it out despite NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reporting that his decisions are either to join the Steelers or retire.

Last season with the New York Jets, he proved to still be a viable option, starting all 17 games and completing 368-of-584 passes for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, 11 interceptions and a 90.5 passer rating.

Considering the only other quarterbacks on the Steelers' roster are veterans Skylar Thompson and Mason Rudolph, as well as rookie Will Howard, there's no doubt that he would be the most experienced and proven option.

Currently, without Rodgers, ESPN BET gives them +120 odds to win nine games, which would be the minimum amount to secure a non-losing record, assuming there are no ties.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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