It’s hard to predict how an NFL season will pan out. Injuries, performance droughts, and scheme adjustments can rewrite even the most well-crafted plans. The Pittsburgh Steelers front office, led by Omar Khan, understood that reality better than most. Their aggressive offseason — featuring a mix of proven All-Pros and experienced veterans — was designed to weather the storm of uncertainty that always looms over a long campaign.
Among those additions was 41-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers, a move that, at the time, felt like a bold but calculated step toward contention.
Fast forward to midseason, and Rodgers is being asked to do far more than anyone, including himself, ever expected.
Heading into this week’s grueling matchup against the surging Indianapolis Colts, the Steelers find themselves leaning heavily on Rodgers’ arm, experience, and leadership. What was supposed to be a complementary role — a veteran presence to stabilize an improving roster — has quickly turned into a rescue mission. The offense, the defense, and even the team’s confidence seem to orbit around the future Hall of Famer.
I’ll be honest — I love seeing Rodgers in black and gold.
There’s something special about watching a player of his caliber elevate an entire organization with just his presence. Arthur Smith’s offense looks infinitely more dynamic with Rodgers behind center. The playbook feels broader, the schemes more imaginative, and the pace more deliberate. Compared to last season’s stagnant offensive rhythm, it’s night and day.
But even I can’t ignore the toll it’s taking on him. Through eight weeks, Rodgers has thrown for 1,489 yards and 16 touchdowns — tied for third in the league — helping the Steelers scrape together four wins.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are not helping Aaron Rodgers achieve Omar Khan's Super Bowl expecations
His production has been nothing short of remarkable, especially at his age. Still, it feels like Pittsburgh is asking him to do too much.
The rushing attack, once the team’s backbone, has fallen apart. The Steelers rank 25th in rushing yards per game (94.3), a steep drop from their top-10 mark last season (134). That lack of balance has forced Rodgers to shoulder a disproportionate amount of the offensive burden — extending plays, scrambling for yards, and relying on his arm more than his legs would probably like at 41.
And while the offense works overtime, the defense hasn’t held up its end of the bargain. Pittsburgh has allowed four opponents to score 30 or more points this season — the most in the Mike Tomlin era since 2021. That kind of defensive collapse means Rodgers isn’t just managing games; he’s being asked to win shootouts every Sunday.
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I can’t imagine Rodgers signed his one-year deal in Pittsburgh expecting to be the team’s savior. The plan was to complement his experience with a bruising run game and a stingy defense — the traditional Steelers way. Instead, he’s been thrust into a role that tests his endurance and, quite frankly, his patience.
I admire Rodgers’ resolve. He hasn’t complained. He’s embraced the challenge, playing with a sense of pride and calm that only he can bring. But at some point, the Steelers need to protect him — not just physically, but philosophically. They can’t let a 41-year-old quarterback carry the franchise’s identity on his back.
Aaron Rodgers’ presence in Pittsburgh is a privilege, not a crutch. It’s time the Steelers start treating it that way.