It’s been a whirlwind offseason for one of football’s sharpest minds—Aaron Rodgers. Few people expected the four-time All-Pro to end up as the Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback, even this late in his career.
But as of Tuesday’s episode of The Pat McAfee Show, one thing is crystal clear: Rodgers isn’t just in love with Pittsburgh—he’s enamored with Head Coach Mike Tomlin.
“Most people who come to the Steelers talk about one of the reasons being Mike T,” Rodgers said with a smile. “I can say that was right at the top. It felt like I was talking to an old friend.”
Hearing those words was enough to make my eyes water. It’s not every day that one of the greatest quarterbacks of our generation publicly praises your team’s coach with that kind of warmth and respect.
This moment carries more weight than just a soundbite. Before Rodgers’ arrival, there was talk—loud and often misguided—about Mike Tomlin’s job security. Early playoff exits and seasons that felt like déjà vu led to whispers that perhaps his message was growing stale.
Aaron Rogers' high praises proves Mike Tomlin is the best coach for the Pittsburgh Steelers
I never bought into that narrative, and clearly, neither does Rodgers.
“I think that’s the thing that’s exciting about Pittsburgh—the built-in leadership that already exists there,” Rodgers added.
He gets it. He sees what some forgot.
Rodgers’ endorsement isn’t just heartwarming—it’s powerful. It signals that the Steelers now have a quarterback not only capable of leading them deep into the postseason but one who believes in and aligns with the culture already in place.
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That kind of cohesion is rare, and in this case, it’s gold—black and gold.
For fans like me, Rodgers’ comments are more than validation. They’re a reminder of what we have: a future Hall of Fame coach in Mike Tomlin, who, despite criticism, has always led with integrity, grit, and consistency.
Now, he has one of the most intelligent and competitive quarterbacks ever by his side.
The Steelers didn’t just get Aaron Rodgers this offseason. They got a believer. In Pittsburgh, that belief might turn into something truly special.