For the first time in a long time, things feel just right with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
On Tuesday, four-time All-Pro and Super Bowl champion Aaron Rodgers joined The Pat McAfee Show to talk about his adventurous offseason and what lies ahead in his new black and gold chapter. What stood out most wasn’t the stories or the jokes—but his mindset.
Rodgers made it clear that 2025 will likely be his final ride, and he’s going all in.
“I’m gonna give the Steelers everything that I’ve got and I’m gonna empty the tank,” Rodgers said. "I'm pretty sure this is my last season and that's why we did the one year deal."
As a lifelong Steelers fan, that declaration was music to my ears. In one sentence, Rodgers erased any doubt that he’s here for a paycheck or a farewell tour. He’s here to compete—and possibly bring another Lombardi Trophy to the Steel City.
Yes, Rodgers is 41, but he’s still savvy, sharp, and—most importantly—motivated. His arm talent, leadership, and football IQ are exactly what the Steelers need to bridge the gap between a gritty, competitive roster and true championship contention.
He gives Pittsburgh something they haven’t had in a while: a proven quarterback capable of elevating everyone around him.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are in a win-win situation in Aaron Rodgers' final season
But the Rodgers signing isn’t just about 2025—it’s also about setting up the future.
Pittsburgh quietly grabbed a potential gem in the sixth round of April’s draft in quarterback Will Howard, the former Ohio State Buckeye. While there were whispers Howard might compete for playing time this year, the talks have cooled now that Rodgers is healthy and locked in.
That’s a good thing.
Rodgers didn’t hesitate to embrace his mentorship role. “If you want assistance, I’m here, buddy. I want to help you,” he told Pat McAfee about Howard.
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That’s the kind of selfless leadership that championship teams build on. Rodgers is not just here to win now—he’s here to help lay the foundation for the next decade of Steelers football.
Pittsburgh has always exuded toughness, tradition, and a team-first mentality.
Rodgers fits that mold more than some might’ve expected. With him under center—and a rising talent like Howard learning behind him—the Steelers are not only in great hands for this season but are positioned perfectly for the future.
Rodgers is emptying the tank. In Pittsburgh, that might be enough to fill the trophy case.