Rodgers vs. Fields? Jets-Steelers Week 1 Clash Possibly Sets Up QB Drama

The NFL couldn’t script it better. Unless it already did. Could week one be a matchup of Justin Fields and Aaron Rodgers?

Now that the schedule is out, one Week 1 matchup has taken center stage. The New York Jets will open their 2025 season at home against the Pittsburgh Steelers. It’s a game loaded with emotion, potential revenge, and quarterbacks facing their former teams.

On one sideline is Justin Fields, who signed with the Jets this offseason after a short and shaky stint in Pittsburgh. On the other is Aaron Rodgers, still a free agent, but widely rumored to land with the Steelers.

A tale of two exits

Aaron Rodgers time in New York ended with a thud. After tearing his Achilles in Week 1 of 2023, he returned in 2024 and posted a 5–12 record as the starter. Once the Jets cleaned house and brought in general manager Darren Mougey and head coach Aaron Glenn, Rodgers found himself without support. He was released at the start of free agency.

Justin Fields faced a similar rejection. He started the first six games for the Steelers in 2024 but was benched in favor of Russell Wilson. Now, both quarterbacks are chasing redemption.

A headline matchup in Week 1

The Jets will host the Steelers on Sunday, September 7. If Rodgers signs with Pittsburgh, it won’t just be another game. It will be must-watch TV.

Justin Fields will be looking to prove he deserved more than a six-game leash last season. Rodgers would be returning to MetLife Stadium in front of the fanbase that was once all-in on him. If he starts for Pittsburgh, the stakes are sky high.

New Era for the Jets

The matchup also marks the beginning of Aaron Glenn’s tenure as head coach. The Jets are shifting direction after a series of underwhelming seasons. Their schedule also includes a London game against the Broncos in Week 6 and a pair of prime-time matchups. But this opener may end up being their most talked-about game of the year.

Will Aaron Rodgers sign in time?

Rodgers remains unsigned for now, training privately and staying quiet. But if the league truly slotted Steelers-Jets in Week 1 with his return in mind, it’s a calculated move to deliver early-season drama.

If he takes the field, expect fireworks. If not, it’s still a revenge game for Fields, who now has the chance to show Pittsburgh what they gave up.

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