Steelers owner Art Rooney II recently mentioned that the team is prepared to wait a little longer as Aaron Rodgers remains unsigned. The veteran quarterback has stated he’ll either play for Pittsburgh or sit out the season entirely. Despite the uncertainty, players like edge rusher Alex Highsmith have shared their enthusiasm about the potential of Rodgers joining the Steelers.
“We know who he is, he’s a Hall of Fame quarterback. He’s one of the best to ever do it. So I wouldn’t say [the rumors of him potentially signing] are a distraction at all,” Highsmith told NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Now that the 2025 NFL schedule is official, the mission is set: get ready for another grueling season. The Pittsburgh Steelers have their sights set on making a return to the playoffs. But for now, one major question looms large — the team still lacks a definitive starter at the game’s most critical position: quarterback.
“We all know what type of quarterback he is and what he brings to the table, and no matter who is back their playing quarterback for us, we’re going to rally around them.”
https://www.twitter.com/MikeGarafolo/status/1925708105641279553
Right now, Aaron Rodgers appears to be the most viable option for the Steelers. Few teams still offer him a realistic shot at a starting role, and Pittsburgh might be his best bet for one final push as a starter.
Aaron Rodgers’ potential run with the Steelers
“I think we just try to put our best foot forward every day. Like with who’s in the building right now. I know Mason [Rudolph] being there, he’s done a great job. The guys are rallying around him and, like I said, he’s been with us before and guys know him; Pittsburgh fans know him. The way that he helped us finish in 2023 was awesome.”
“‘If (Aaron Rodgers) does sign with us, it’s going to be really exciting to have him,” Highsmith continued.
If the rumors come true and Highsmith gets his wish, Rodgers will likely emerge as the clear starter. He would also step into a key role in mentoring sixth-round pick Will Howard, who has the potential to grow into a reliable starter with the right development. Rodgers has a history of guiding young quarterbacks, and Pittsburgh would count on that leadership to help shape Howard’s future.
Head coach Mike Tomlin has consistently built his team around a dominant run game paired with a complementary aerial attack. Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith designs his plays with that mindset. The key question now centers on Aaron Rodgers—would he be willing to adapt to an offense where he isn’t the focal point? At this stage in his storied career, Rodgers has little left to prove. Embracing a system that prioritizes team success over individual control might be the final chapter he needs to complete an already remarkable legacy.
