Aaron Rodgers Development Emerges Before Colts Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Nov 2, 2025 1:16 PM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers entered Week 9 of the 2025 NFL season with a sense of renewed optimism. Aaron Rodgers, 41, had brought stability and experience to the franchise through the first eight weeks, helping Pittsburgh stay competitive in the AFC North. Since his debut performance in Week 1 — when he threw four touchdown passes and no interceptions, the best opener by a Steelers quarterback since Ben Roethlisberger — Rodgers has continued to prove that age is just a number.

Entering Week 9, Rodgers had thrown for 1,489 yards, 16 touchdowns and five interceptions in seven games. As Pittsburgh prepared to host the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, the focus was on whether Rodgers and the offense could carry them again — that is, until a sudden pregame concern had Steelers fans holding their breath.

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8).Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Moments before kickoff, Rodgers appeared to suffer a hand injury during warmups. Cameras noticed the veteran quarterback slamming the ball on the field before pointing to his finger, sparking immediate concern over his ability to start or perform at full strength.

However, after brief attention from the training staff, Rodgers took all his normal reps in warmups, signaling he intends to play despite the scare.

Rodgers took all his normal reps in warmups after this https://t.co/NU5zRIgpOz
— Mike DeFabo (@MikeDeFabo) November 2, 2025

Although Rodgers started Sunday’s game, any extended issue with the four-time MVP would deal a major blow to the Steelers. Should Rodgers be unable to finish, veteran backup quarterback Mason Rudolph would step in. Rudolph lacks Rodgers’ experience and chemistry with the offense, a potential setback for a team already battling inconsistency.

Rodgers’ presence has been central to the team’s offensive identity, not only with his arm talent but also his ability to read defenses and adjust on the fly. Without him, the Steelers risk becoming one-dimensional, putting more pressure on their already overworked defense led by T.J. Watt.

If Rodger is limited, Rudolph will face a big test.

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

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