Steelers should think twice about critical preseason decision 

Playing quarterback Aaron Rodgers in the preseason could be far too risky for the Pittsburgh Steelers. 

The Jacksonville Jaguars host the Steelers in their first preseason game Saturday at 7 p.m. ET. Rodgers, 41, typically hasn't played in the preseason throughout his career but seems open to the idea. 

"I do think it's in the plan for me to play this week," the QB told the media Wednesday. "But whatever [head coach Mike Tomlin] wants to do, I'm fully on board." 

Tomlin, meanwhile, was noncommittal about Rodgers playing Saturday. Perhaps he's realizing it may be a bad idea.

Rodgers suffered a season-ending Achilles injury when he played for the New York Jets during the 2023 season. Since then, the former Green Bay Packers star has lost some of his mobility. In 17 starts with the Jets in 2024, he took 40 sacks, the fifth most in his career. 

Starters don't play entire preseason games. Still, if Rodgers were to suffer an injury, it could throw a wrench into the Steelers' plans. 

Pittsburgh's other options at the most important position aren't great. Backup QB Mason Rudolph has a 9-8-1 starting record in the regular season, and his career passer rating (84.7) is below average. 

Rookie QB Will Howard fractured his throwing hand during Tuesday's practice, and the sixth-round pick out of Ohio State is expected to miss the rest of preseason. 

Steelers QB4 Skylar Thompson went 1-2 in three starts in three seasons with the Miami Dolphins. He also tossed more interceptions (three) than touchdown passes (one) in 10 games played.

The Steelers offense was reportedly struggling at the beginning of camp, but it appears Rodgers is developing better chemistry with one of his new wide receivers. 

With the offense improving, playing the four-time MVP in preseason games may not be a must-do for the Steelers.