The Pittsburgh Steelers finally have themselves an answer at the quarterback position. After four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers officially ended up signing a one-year deal with the Steelers worth up to just under $20 million, Pittsburgh now has a true starting-caliber veteran at its disposal. Rodgers, who signs with the Steelers just one season following the Russell Wilson and Justin Fields experiment, is expected to play a huge role on the Steelers' offense in 2025, and should have no problem further developing his connection with DK Metcalf.
Wilson, who signed a one-year deal with the New York Giants earlier in the offseason, is a solid veteran who had ups and downs during his time in Pittsburgh. A 13-year pro, Wilson shined throughout his time as a Seattle Seahawk and had an excellent connection with Metcalf prior to both players' time in Pittsburgh.
Wilson most notably struggled in the fourth quarter during his lone season with the Steelers, as communication issues were a recurring issue throughout the course of the year. As speculation continues to surround Wilson's time in Pittsburgh, Steelers' former offensive coordinator Randy Fichtner took a moment to voice his opinion on the matter.
"I got a small theory on that." Fichtner stated. "I think there's a team that they are trying to be. And they have what they want to look like offensively, and who they are going to be, and how they are going to utilize their people. And maybe even somewhat eliminate risk in an attempt to 'we are going to win, whether it's ugly, but we are going to win, we have always been able to win with a solid defense here.' Guys can make mistakes, so let's limit how much communication can actually be done because once you start talking, things can get confusing. Like signals, and everything else."
Fichtner then went on to highlight the importance of everyone being on the same page, claiming if one person messes up then the entire play will be put at risk.
"It only takes one person to mess up and you can't dance, or you're stepping all over each other. So I think they probably tightened things down potentially, to remove some of that potential risk. And in doing so, you limit a veteran quarterback, and you might of not been able to pull everything that he has to give you."
Wilson, who drew major frustration from the fanbase a number of times last season, is expected to be the Giants' starting quarterback in week 1 barring any injuries. Fields, who signed with the New York Jets a number of months ago, should have no problem excelling as the starting quarterback for his new team. With both Wilson and Fields officially out of Pittsburgh and in New York, the Steelers opted to bring in Rodgers in hopes of a fresh start at quarterback in 2025.
Steelers Fans Voice Frustration As Rodgers Remains Absent Throughout Some Key Drills
With Rodgers officially in Pittsburgh, the Steelers' newest quarterback has reportedly missed out on multiple key drills throughout the early stages of camp. Rodgers is expected to slowly ease into his new role with the Steelers, as head coach Mike Tomlin reportedly wants the four-time MVP to focus on the playbook before being thrown into team drills. Rodgers, 41, is a player that is far past his prime but is still expected to play a major role on the Steelers offense in 2025.
Rodgers may prove to play a massive role off the field as well, as the former Green Bay Packer has publicly committed to mentoring rookie Will Howard. Howard, a sixth round selection out of Ohio State, is a promising rookie that is expected to get an opportunity in the future. Despite missing multiple drills throughout mini camp, Rodgers is expected to be a full participant throughout training camp in July.
With both Wilson and Fields officially in New York, many Steelers fans continue to wonder why one of the two did not work out. Many blame communication issues between both quarterbacks and offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, as late game issues remained a serious problem throughout the second half of the season. With the start of training camp remaining over a month away, Pittsburgh is hoping for a more productive year at the quarterback position in 2025.
