Aaron Rodgers uncertainty not a distraction to Pittsburgh Steelers, Alex Highsmith says

It’s been over two months since NFL free agency began. Aaron Rodgers remains unsigned, leaving his biggest suitor, the Pittsburgh Steelers, in limbo.

Soon, training camp will arrive. The Steelers need an answer from the 41-year-old quarterback. Until then, the questions about Rodgers will continue to be asked to those within the organization. Edge rusher Alex Highsmith said on Thursday’s “The Insiders” on NFL Network that to this point, Rodgers hasn’t been a distraction.

“I get asked a lot by my peers and some friends who are fans and stuff like that,” Highsmith said, via Nick Shook of NFL.com. “Just feel like in the locker room, we’re in there working and I think that’s just really what it’s about at this point. I know that if he does sign, we’re definitely going to be really excited to have him. We know who he is. He’s a Hall of Fame quarterback. He’s one of the best to ever do it.

“I wouldn’t say it’s a distraction at all, but we all know what type of quarterback he is and what he brings to the table.”

Steelers awaiting decision from Aaron Rodgers

The Steelers have completely turned over their quarterback room this offseason. Gone are Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson were signed, with Ohio State‘s Will Howard selected in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

None of those players are close to Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP and Super Bowl champion. But Rudolph has been there before, serving as Pittsburgh’s backup from 2018-23. Rudolph went 3-0 in his starts in 2023 and started a playoff game that season for the Steelers. If Rodgers doesn’t sign and Rudolph is the guy, Highsmith will still be excited.

“I think we just try to put our best foot forward every day,” Highsmith said. “Like with who’s in the building right now. I know Mason being there, he’s done a great job. The guys are rallying around him and, like I said, he’s been with us before and guys know him, Pittsburgh fans know him. The way that he helped us finish in 2023 was awesome.

“No matter who’s back there for us, whether it’s him or if Aaron Rodgers is gonna come, I’m just excited. Whoever’s back there, we’re gonna have their backs and we’re gonna rally behind them. Just excited for whoever it’s gonna be.”