Steelers Praised For Most Controversial Offseason Move

The Pittsburgh Steelers may have waited until June to finalize their starting quarterback plans for the 2025 season but they have checked that box nonetheless. 

Aaron Rodgers signed a one-year deal with the team, ending months of rumors, speculation and waiting on what was an inevitable conclusion. Now the team is ready to move forward with the league's most polarizing quarterback. 

Rodgers made his first appearance with the Steelers at minicamp last week, embracing his commitment to the team. But this move has been met with some mixed reviews. 

Fans have piled on the Steelers for handing the keys to an aged star even if for one season. Rodgers' glaring struggles with the New York Jets last season has some convinced his best days are long past him. 

While that point may be true, several league executives revealed to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler their belief in the validity of the Steelers decision. In the minds of a select few, the Steelers got a "steal."

"He's still throwing the s--- out of the ball, honestly," a veteran NFL offensive coach admitted to Fowler. "He's the best quarterback they've had since [Ben Roethlisberger]. We will see how the body holds up, but I think he's going to help them immensely."

The body is certainly a concern for Rodgers. He is nearly two years removed from an Achilles tear that ended his 2023 season on his first drive and his pocket presence has certainly waned in these latter stages.

But there are some tools left in the chest that play into his favor. While Rodgers may not stack up against the elite play callers in the league anymore, his best is better than what the Steelers have utilized for a decent stretch. 

"Look, the mobility is an issue, there's no doubt," an AFC executive admitted. "But where he helps them is with the plus arm strength and the field vision from the pocket. They haven't had that. I'm not sure that will be enough, but the offense will be at least respectable."

Looking at this Steelers' offense, Arthur Smith's run-heavy scheme will remain the driving force even with Rodgers in the fold and DK Metcalf joining the squad. But that foundation and focus should make the veteran quarterback's life easier and the Steelers less reliant on him to shoulder the load each week. 

The ability for the Steelers to execute that blueprint will determine their success and that of Rodgers in a Black and Gold jersey in 2025. And while there is plenty of reasonable doubt this partnership works, the Steelers aren't the only group seeing this vision as a success.