QB Aaron Rodgers, PIT (1 Viewer)

[Joe Bryant]

I think Rodgers was a heck of a QB. Was. Now I don't want him anywhere near my team at age 40. I question his leadership and team cohesion skills. I question his accuracy. I question his health. I question what he would ask the GM/Coach/Owner to do to pacify his wants. If a team thinks AR is getting them over the hump, they are thinking of the 32 year old AR. He's gone.

Mostly agree with this. 2021 was 4 years ago now. Rodgers hasn't been a difference maker since then, and the Steelers have even fewer weapons than the Jets did. This is likely a bottom 5 offense WITH Rodgers, and arguably the worst without. I'd argue Fields>>Wilson>>Rodgers>Rudolph.

Throughout his career, Rodgers has been an elite QB in almost every measure (he's always taken too many sacks) but last year it sure seemed like the deep ball and the overall accuracy just weren't there. He still made good reads and great decisions but would get in trouble trying to make throws he could in 2020, but not in 2024.

He's definitely not the player he was. That's true of all players at the end.

But still #8 in passing yards last year.

And his accuracy has also fallen. But his 63% completion percentage is ok. Josh Allen (63.6%) and C.J. Stroud (63.2%) are comparable.

i think the biggest thing may be your last point. I do think managing the skills is likely a challenge. What he could do 2020 isn't the same as what he can do in 2025. Other first ballot Hall of Famers like Manning and Brady were able to make that mental adjustment at the end. It'll be interesting to see if Rodgers can.

The 8th in passing yards is a little hollow in my opinion, as he was 2nd in pass attempts. His YPA was lower than anyone starting in 2025, except rookie Caleb Williams, and Bryce Young. Its hard to feel good about a low YPA accompanied by a low completion percentage. With Josh Allen his 7.7 YPA makes up a lot for his 63%, without even counting his rushing skill.

I think it was easier for Manning and Brady because they didn't win the same way Rodgers did, they never really had that "win with big arm and athleticism" that Rodgers often did, so when those things started to decline it was a lot less jarring. I think if you want to look at a guy similar to Rodgers in that regard, you can stay in Pittsburgh, because its late career Roethlisberger. Now Rodgers was more accurate than Big Ben, but Big Ben went through the same issue where once he didn't have a league best arm, he couldn't adjust, and the Steelers offense fell off, and its basically never recovered.

For sure. As I said, everyone will see stats in different lights. All good.

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

Please let's keep the politics and non football posts out of this one. I think most folks have made it clear how they feel about him on those points.

Is ARod’s messaging on the Pat MacAfee show yesterday not relevant to his career and potential hiring?

That’s not his “politics”, it’s his very public statements.

We’d bring it up about any other player doing such a thing, why is that taboo here? Seems like an important hiring consideration to me.

Weird.

 

[Joe Bryant]

Please let's keep the politics and non football posts out of this one. I think most folks have made it clear how they feel about him on those points.

Is ARod’s messaging on the Pat MacAfee show yesterday not relevant to his career and potential hiring?

That’s not his “politics”, it’s his very public statements.

We’d bring it up about any other player doing such a thing, why is that taboo here? Seems like an important hiring consideration to me.

Weird.

I'm sure some think not doing politics here may be weird. I don't. We've beaten that one to death here.

Please let's not do politics in this thread. Or call people a "nut" or "crazy" for non football things. And that goes for every player. Thanks.

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

Please let's keep the politics and non football posts out of this one. I think most folks have made it clear how they feel about him on those points.

Is ARod’s messaging on the Pat MacAfee show yesterday not relevant to his career and potential hiring?

That’s not his “politics”, it’s his very public statements.

We’d bring it up about any other player doing such a thing, why is that taboo here? Seems like an important hiring consideration to me.

Weird.

Joe just wants us to all have fun and over decades of experience knows what his tolerance for these hot button issues are.

• Rashee Rice - whole topic about his off-field antics, no problem. Value discussions because of potential suspension. No problem.

• Addison DUI - much discussion of his suspension, no problem.

I could list 50 of these and all have been widely discussed on this very forum, in the context of player value/employability, but ARod is the golden boy and his off-field very public insanity cant be mentioned when he’s tryna get a job?

Oooooookay. Sounds whack, but like you said, it’s Joe’s site. We’re all just guests at it.

Enjoy your evening, gents.

 

[Joe Bryant]

Please let's keep the politics and non football posts out of this one. I think most folks have made it clear how they feel about him on those points.

Is ARod’s messaging on the Pat MacAfee show yesterday not relevant to his career and potential hiring?

That’s not his “politics”, it’s his very public statements.

We’d bring it up about any other player doing such a thing, why is that taboo here? Seems like an important hiring consideration to me.

Weird.

Joe just wants us to all have fun and over decades of experience knows what his tolerance for these hot button issues are.

• Rashee Rice - whole topic about his off-field antics, no problem. Value discussions because of potential suspension. No problem.

• Addison DUI - much discussion of his suspension, no problem.

I could list 50 of these and all have been widely discussed on this very forum, in the context of player value/employability, but ARod is the golden boy and his off-field very public insanity cant be mentioned when he’s tryna get a job?

Oooooookay. Sounds whack, but like you said, it’s Joe’s site. We’re all just guests at it.

Enjoy your evening, gents.

Yes, events that could result in a player's suspension or affect his ability to be on the field have always been something we talk about. This is not that. Thanks.

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

Please let's not do politics in this thread. Or call people a "nut" or "crazy" for non football things. And that goes for every player. Thanks.

Sure thing boss.

 

[Chaka]

Rodgers on Rogan yesterday. Haven't listened. Joe's my drive to work listen so I will.

It was, interesting.

No, wait! It was the other one, tedious.

#Attrubution to @jdoggydogg 's old signature.

 

[Joe Bryant]

And for sure, missing mini-camp will have people excited.

Or even worse, actual training camp.

You'd never see a real pro like Brady do something like that at the end of his career.

LOL

 

[Biabreakable]

I drafted Rodgers because I hope he retires and it's the last time he bothers me.

 

[Zeppelin]

Its hard to feel good about a low YPA accompanied by a low completion percentage.

That's one of the biggest red flags there are for a QB. Combine that with his lack of mobility, age, and baggage and it would make me look elsewhere for a QB.

 

[Zeppelin]

"Hot take"™: A-A-ron's gonna roll in the 2nd week of TC™. Team's gonna outwardly act like it was the plan all along, inwardly a bunch of the long-time veterans (who DID show up to OTA and manadatory stuff) are going to quietly wonder "WTF?" and start to resent him, quietly or otherwise.

I definitely thought the bolded was an issue last year with the Jets because he was on the team and decided to take a vacation instead of going to mandatory minicamp.

This year I don't see it being an issue because he hasn't signed yet. Last year and this year is apples and oranges.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

This year I don't see it being an issue because he hasn't signed yet. Last year and this year is apples and oranges.

I think its closer to apples and an "apple flavored something."

Most players arent stupid. If they were gonna feel resentful over a guy not showing, they'll probably still feel resentful over a guy not signing as a way of not showing.

Hell, after the first week of all these rumors Cam Heyward was already basically saying he was over it on his/someone's podcast when asked if he'd "recruit" the way he did for Russell Wilson. "We're the Steelers. That's the pitch. If he wants to be here great. If he doesn't it's no skin off my back."

He walked it back after the team got to him, but that pretty much showed where his head's at, imo.

 

[cdclopper]

Please let's keep the politics and non football posts out of this one. I think most folks have made it clear how they feel about him on those points.

Is ARod’s messaging on the Pat MacAfee show yesterday not relevant to his career and potential hiring?

That’s not his “politics”, it’s his very public statements.

We’d bring it up about any other player doing such a thing, why is that taboo here? Seems like an important hiring consideration to me.

Weird.

Its annoying is why.

 

[cdclopper]

This year I don't see it being an issue because he hasn't signed yet. Last year and this year is apples and oranges.

I think its closer to apples and an "apple flavored something."

Most players arent stupid. If they were gonna feel resentful over a guy not showing, they'll probably still feel resentful over a guy not signing as a way of not showing.

Hell, after the first week of all these rumors Cam Heyward was already basically saying he was over it on his/someone's podcast when asked if he'd "recruit" the way he did for Russell Wilson. "We're the Steelers. That's the pitch. If he wants to be here great. If he doesn't it's no skin off my back."

He walked it back after the team got to him, but that pretty much showed where his head's at, imo.

Cam' is being annoyed by the questions. It's the plebs that irritate him, not Aaron Rodgers. Like every year when he's getting asked on his podcast about Mike Tomlin, and it grinds his gears. It's not Mike Tomlin he's upset with.

 

[Football Jones]

And for sure, missing mini-camp will have people excited.

Or even worse, actual training camp.

You'd never see a real pro like Brady do something like that at the end of his career.

LOL

Bingo.

It's a real problem because it's Aaron Charles Rodgers.

 

[Chaka]

The comparisons to Brady are hilarious.

Tom Brady who led his team to three Super Bowls with two wins after age 40. Tom Brady whose work ethic and training discipline are legendary. Who missed 11 days of TC in his final season because he was getting a divorce. And that is what we are suggesting as a comp for

Rodgers, who hasn't been to a Super Bowl in 14 years and is legendary on the field for fiercely protecting his low interception percentage and not getting his teams over the hump.

If Rodgers really wanted another ring he'd be signed, in camp and busting his ### to deliver a championship. Instead he's conspicuously not doing that and hasn't been doing that for years.

Rodgers was a great player, statistically, but he's coasting on reputation and spending more time prepping for his post football career.

 

[fatness]

Aaron Rodgers should stay off the Pat McAfee show so Joe doesn't have to forbid us from talking about what Aaron Rodgers said on the Pat McAfee show.
Oh well, back to the Jordon Hudson thread.

 

[Zeppelin]

And for sure, missing mini-camp will have people excited.

Or even worse, actual training camp.

You'd never see a real pro like Brady do something like that at the end of his career.

LOL

Bingo.

It's a real problem because it's Aaron Charles Rodgers.

If a QB with a different name did the same things Rodgers did it would be the same problem...not one individual thing but the collective.

It has zero to do with his name.

I'm also curious why you used his middle name.

 

[Football Jones]

And for sure, missing mini-camp will have people excited.

Or even worse, actual training camp.

You'd never see a real pro like Brady do something like that at the end of his career.

LOL

Bingo.

It's a real problem because it's Aaron Charles Rodgers.

I'm also curious why you used his middle name.

No particular reason, lol.

Do I need a reason?

 

[Football Jones]

I'm sure ARod is wanting a ring and the best way to do that right now is to play for a team with a legit chance to win it all. Is it the Steelers? I doubt it.

There's more than a 0% chance he could end up in Minnesota. The Vikings are title-ready except for the unknown at QB. It's not out of the realm of possibilities that KOC would give Rodgers a call (they're good friends, after all). I don't believe Minnesota ever totally ruled it out (simply saying 'we believe in JJ'). What if McCarthy struggles?

For all we know, ARod is in tip-top shape. It's silly to think a QB with his experience and as smart as he is couldn't get up to speed pretty quickly in any offense. Maybe he waits for an injury. Plenty of other QBs have done it. It's no different because he's somebody who has a lot of detractors, especially due to off-field stuff.

Rodgers doesn't owe anyone jackpoo. The Steelers have the right to move on and I'm sure he's aware of that. ACR is playing his cards and he's got every right to do that on his own timeline. This isn't rocket science.

 

[Joe Bryant]

I'm sure ARod is wanting a ring and the best way to do that right now is to play for a team with a legit chance to win it all. Is it the Steelers? I doubt it.

There's more than a 0% chance he could end up in Minnesota. The Vikings are title-ready except for the unknown at QB. It's not out of the realm of possibilities that KOC would give Rodgers a call (they're good friends, after all). I don't believe Minnesota ever totally ruled it out (simply saying 'we believe in JJ'). What if McCarthy struggles?

For all we know, ARod is in tip-top shape. It's silly to think a QB with his experience couldn't get up to speed pretty quickly in any offense. Maybe he waits for an injury. Plenty of other QBs have done it. It's no different because he's somebody who has a lot of detractors, especially due to off-field stuff.

Rodgers doesn't owe anyone jackpoo. The Steelers have the right to move on and I'm sure he's aware of that. ACR is playing his cards and he's got every right to do that on his own timeline. This isn't rocket science.

Agreed. I have zero inside info but it does feel like the possibility of Minnesota, even if remote, is a factor in the delay. I can see that.

Making sure the fantastic option isn't possible before accepting an ok option or retiring is simply the smart gameplay move.

The player clearly seems to be trying to do what's best for his situation within the rules of free agency. Sometimes that's not popular.

In this case, I can see why he'd want to be certain a dream situation in Minnesota was for sure not possible.

 

[Anarchy99]

I think Rodgers was a heck of a QB. Was. Now I don't want him anywhere near my team at age 40. I question his leadership and team cohesion skills. I question his accuracy. I question his health. I question what he would ask the GM/Coach/Owner to do to pacify his wants. If a team thinks AR is getting them over the hump, they are thinking of the 32 year old AR. He's gone.

Mostly agree with this. 2021 was 4 years ago now. Rodgers hasn't been a difference maker since then, and the Steelers have even fewer weapons than the Jets did. This is likely a bottom 5 offense WITH Rodgers, and arguably the worst without. I'd argue Fields>>Wilson>>Rodgers>Rudolph.

Throughout his career, Rodgers has been an elite QB in almost every measure (he's always taken too many sacks) but last year it sure seemed like the deep ball and the overall accuracy just weren't there. He still made good reads and great decisions but would get in trouble trying to make throws he could in 2020, but not in 2024.

He's definitely not the player he was. That's true of all players at the end.

But still #8 in passing yards last year.

And his accuracy has also fallen. But his 63% completion percentage is ok. Josh Allen (63.6%) and C.J. Stroud (63.2%) are comparable.

i think the biggest thing may be your last point. I do think managing the skills is likely a challenge. What he could do 2020 isn't the same as what he can do in 2025. Other first ballot Hall of Famers like Manning and Brady were able to make that mental adjustment at the end. It'll be interesting to see if Rodgers can.

I know you have been beating the drum for the 8th in passing yards thing. The Jets had way more passing attempts than PIT did (over 100 more). If Rodgers performed at the same level but at the discounted number of attempts that the Steelers had, he would have ranked 20th in passing yards last year.

Brock Purdy last year ranked 10th in yardage, but had he had the same number of attempts as Rodgers (at the same performance level), he would have ranked 1st in yardage at nearly 5K. The point being, not all stats can be viewed and valued the same.

At this stage, it’s probably a reasonable assumption that at best AR is a middle of the pack QB but equally reasonable to think he is on the wrong side of average. That likely is better then the other options the Steelers have, but that may not be saying much.

 

[Joe Bryant]

I think Rodgers was a heck of a QB. Was. Now I don't want him anywhere near my team at age 40. I question his leadership and team cohesion skills. I question his accuracy. I question his health. I question what he would ask the GM/Coach/Owner to do to pacify his wants. If a team thinks AR is getting them over the hump, they are thinking of the 32 year old AR. He's gone.

Mostly agree with this. 2021 was 4 years ago now. Rodgers hasn't been a difference maker since then, and the Steelers have even fewer weapons than the Jets did. This is likely a bottom 5 offense WITH Rodgers, and arguably the worst without. I'd argue Fields>>Wilson>>Rodgers>Rudolph.

Throughout his career, Rodgers has been an elite QB in almost every measure (he's always taken too many sacks) but last year it sure seemed like the deep ball and the overall accuracy just weren't there. He still made good reads and great decisions but would get in trouble trying to make throws he could in 2020, but not in 2024.

He's definitely not the player he was. That's true of all players at the end.

But still #8 in passing yards last year.

And his accuracy has also fallen. But his 63% completion percentage is ok. Josh Allen (63.6%) and C.J. Stroud (63.2%) are comparable.

i think the biggest thing may be your last point. I do think managing the skills is likely a challenge. What he could do 2020 isn't the same as what he can do in 2025. Other first ballot Hall of Famers like Manning and Brady were able to make that mental adjustment at the end. It'll be interesting to see if Rodgers can.

I know you have been beating the drum for the 8th in passing yards thing. The Jets had way more passing attempts than PIT did (over 100 more). If Rodgers performed at the same level but at the discounted number of attempts that the Steelers had, he would have ranked 20th in passing yards last year.

Brock Purdy last year ranked 10th in yardage, but had he had the same number of attempts as Rodgers (at the same performance level), he would have ranked 1st in yardage at nearly 5K. The point being, not all stats can be viewed and valued the same.

At this stage, it’s probably a reasonable assumption that at best AR is a middle of the pack QB but equally reasonable to think he is on the wrong side of average. That likely is better then the other options the Steelers have, but that may not be saying much.

Sure, I always look at stats. I think most of us do. Especially for fantasy football. Which drives a lot.

And for sure I'd say he's probably a middle of the pack QB at this point. With a hope he could return to bits of what we've seen from him. And the worry that he could be significantly worse. I don't think many disagree with that.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

Pat McAfee heavily inferred that he's doing this to skip mini camp and then will show up just in time for training camp.

Rodgers is worse than Favre.

This was completely expected. Which is why I'll devote the rest of this post to pointing out that you mixed up "inferred" and "implied". You inferred this from what McAfee implied.

 

[Biabreakable]

I'm sure ARod is wanting a ring and the best way to do that right now is to play for a team with a legit chance to win it all. Is it the Steelers? I doubt it.

There's more than a 0% chance he could end up in Minnesota. The Vikings are title-ready except for the unknown at QB. It's not out of the realm of possibilities that KOC would give Rodgers a call (they're good friends, after all). I don't believe Minnesota ever totally ruled it out (simply saying 'we believe in JJ'). What if McCarthy struggles?

For all we know, ARod is in tip-top shape. It's silly to think a QB with his experience couldn't get up to speed pretty quickly in any offense. Maybe he waits for an injury. Plenty of other QBs have done it. It's no different because he's somebody who has a lot of detractors, especially due to off-field stuff.

Rodgers doesn't owe anyone jackpoo. The Steelers have the right to move on and I'm sure he's aware of that. ACR is playing his cards and he's got every right to do that on his own timeline. This isn't rocket science.

Agreed. I have zero inside info but it does feel like the possibility of Minnesota, even if remote, is a factor in the delay. I can see that.

Making sure the fantastic option isn't possible before accepting an ok option or retiring is simply the smart gameplay move.

The player clearly seems to be trying to do what's best for his situation within the rules of free agency. Sometimes that's not popular.

In this case, I can see why he'd want to be certain a dream situation in Minnesota was for sure not possible.

JJ McCarthy is the starting QB for the Vikings.

Sure every QB under the sun reportedly wants to play for the Vikings.

But the Vikings already have their QBs for 2025.

I expect better than this from you Joe.

 

[sm8680]

Aaron Rodgers had a solid statistical season with the Jets in 2024, but the team struggled overall. He played all 17 games, throwing for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, with a 63% completion rate and a 90.5 passer rating. Despite his efforts, the Jets finished with a 5–12 record, missing the playoffs.

Rodgers' performance was among the best in Jets history, ranking third in franchise history for passing yards and touchdowns in a single season. However, the team faced challenges, including coaching changes and difficulties closing out games.

Ultimately, Rodgers' time with the Jets ended after the season, and he is now considering his next move, with speculation that he may join the Pittsburgh Steelers.

I'm just hoping that he stiffs the Steelers

 

[Zeppelin]

And for sure, missing mini-camp will have people excited.

Or even worse, actual training camp.

You'd never see a real pro like Brady do something like that at the end of his career.

LOL

Bingo.

It's a real problem because it's Aaron Charles Rodgers.

I'm also curious why you used his middle name.

No particular reason, lol.

Do I need a reason?

I just asked out of curiosity.

 

[Joe Bryant]

I'm sure ARod is wanting a ring and the best way to do that right now is to play for a team with a legit chance to win it all. Is it the Steelers? I doubt it.

There's more than a 0% chance he could end up in Minnesota. The Vikings are title-ready except for the unknown at QB. It's not out of the realm of possibilities that KOC would give Rodgers a call (they're good friends, after all). I don't believe Minnesota ever totally ruled it out (simply saying 'we believe in JJ'). What if McCarthy struggles?

For all we know, ARod is in tip-top shape. It's silly to think a QB with his experience couldn't get up to speed pretty quickly in any offense. Maybe he waits for an injury. Plenty of other QBs have done it. It's no different because he's somebody who has a lot of detractors, especially due to off-field stuff.

Rodgers doesn't owe anyone jackpoo. The Steelers have the right to move on and I'm sure he's aware of that. ACR is playing his cards and he's got every right to do that on his own timeline. This isn't rocket science.

Agreed. I have zero inside info but it does feel like the possibility of Minnesota, even if remote, is a factor in the delay. I can see that.

Making sure the fantastic option isn't possible before accepting an ok option or retiring is simply the smart gameplay move.

The player clearly seems to be trying to do what's best for his situation within the rules of free agency. Sometimes that's not popular.

In this case, I can see why he'd want to be certain a dream situation in Minnesota was for sure not possible.

JJ McCarthy is the starting QB for the Vikings.

Sure every QB under the sun reportedly wants to play for the Vikings.

But the Vikings already have their QBs for 2025.

I expect better than this from you Joe.

I was super clear to stress it was remote. It's my understanding there is still some private talk the window is not 100% completely shut. But it may well be.

And of course, an unfortunate opening could possibly open with injury to another team. But that's hopefully not likely.

Agreed. I have zero inside info but it does feel like the possibility of Minnesota, even if remote, is a factor in the delay. I can see that.

Making sure the fantastic option isn't possible before accepting an ok option or retiring is simply the smart gameplay move.

The player clearly seems to be trying to do what's best for his situation within the rules of free agency. Sometimes that's not popular.

In this case, I can see why he'd want to be certain a dream situation in Minnesota was for sure not possible.

This is about as good as I'll always do.

 

[sm8680]

Aaron Rodgers' 2024 stats 3,897 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions are quite similar to J.J. McCarthy's 2025 projections, which estimate 3,929 passing yards, 27.2 touchdowns, and 15.9 interceptions.

That certainly makes for an interesting debate. While Rodgers has the experience, McCarthy is expected to bring fresh energy to the Vikings' offense. If anything, this comparison strengthens the argument that Minnesota is making a reasonable bet on McCarthy rather than chasing Rodgers. But I can't help but believe that Rodgers would exceed McCarthy's projections if he was signed by the Vikings.

https://g.espncdn.com/s/ffldraftkit/25/NFLDK2025_CS_ClayProjections2025.pdf

 

[Joe Bryant]

Aaron Rodgers' 2024 stats 3,897 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions are quite similar to J.J. McCarthy's 2025 projections, which estimate 3,929 passing yards, 27.2 touchdowns, and 15.9 interceptions.

That certainly makes for an interesting debate. While Rodgers has the experience, McCarthy is expected to bring fresh energy to the Vikings' offense. If anything, this comparison strengthens the argument that Minnesota is making a reasonable bet on McCarthy rather than chasing Rodgers. But I can't help but believe that Rodgers would exceed McCarthy's projections if he was signed by the Vikings.

https://g.espncdn.com/s/ffldraftkit/25/NFLDK2025_CS_ClayProjections2025.pdf

Thanks. I'd have to think Rodgers cast and coaching if he were to be in Minnesota would be an upgrade over what he had in NY.

But it's an interesting discussion.

And as I've said, I fully understand not adding Rodgers if you think McCarthy is fully healthy and you like what you're seeing in practice. They drafted him that high for a reason and the clock is ticking on the cheap rookie deal. Easy to see why they'd want to play McCarthy if they feel confident.

 

[osubuckeyeman]

Aaron Rodgers' 2024 stats 3,897 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions are quite similar to J.J. McCarthy's 2025 projections, which estimate 3,929 passing yards, 27.2 touchdowns, and 15.9 interceptions.

That certainly makes for an interesting debate. While Rodgers has the experience, McCarthy is expected to bring fresh energy to the Vikings' offense. If anything, this comparison strengthens the argument that Minnesota is making a reasonable bet on McCarthy rather than chasing Rodgers. But I can't help but believe that Rodgers would exceed McCarthy's projections if he was signed by the Vikings.

https://g.espncdn.com/s/ffldraftkit/25/NFLDK2025_CS_ClayProjections2025.pdf

Thanks. I'd have to think Rodgers cast and coaching if he were to be in Minnesota would be an upgrade over what he had in NY.

But it's an interesting discussion.

And as I've said, I fully understand not adding Rodgers if you think McCarthy is fully healthy and you like what you're seeing in practice. They drafted him that high for a reason and the clock is ticking on the cheap rookie deal. Easy to see why they'd want to play McCarthy if they feel confident.

Adding Rodgers is okay if JJ is ruled out for the entire season. If you add him and JJ can be healthy later in the year, then I think you add someone else and clarify that when JJ is ready this season, it is JJ's job. The problem, I suppose, is that if that person, who is the QB early, has success and is winning, can you bench them and have JJ take over? You can do that a lot easier with anyone else, not named Aaron Rodgers.

 

[Joe Bryant]

Aaron Rodgers' 2024 stats 3,897 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions are quite similar to J.J. McCarthy's 2025 projections, which estimate 3,929 passing yards, 27.2 touchdowns, and 15.9 interceptions.

That certainly makes for an interesting debate. While Rodgers has the experience, McCarthy is expected to bring fresh energy to the Vikings' offense. If anything, this comparison strengthens the argument that Minnesota is making a reasonable bet on McCarthy rather than chasing Rodgers. But I can't help but believe that Rodgers would exceed McCarthy's projections if he was signed by the Vikings.

https://g.espncdn.com/s/ffldraftkit/25/NFLDK2025_CS_ClayProjections2025.pdf

Thanks. I'd have to think Rodgers cast and coaching if he were to be in Minnesota would be an upgrade over what he had in NY.

But it's an interesting discussion.

And as I've said, I fully understand not adding Rodgers if you think McCarthy is fully healthy and you like what you're seeing in practice. They drafted him that high for a reason and the clock is ticking on the cheap rookie deal. Easy to see why they'd want to play McCarthy if they feel confident.

Adding Rodgers is okay if JJ is ruled out for the entire season. If you add him and JJ can be healthy later in the year, then I think you add someone else and clarify that when JJ is ready this season, it is JJ's job. The problem, I suppose, is that if that person, who is the QB early, has success and is winning, can you bench them and have JJ take over? You can do that a lot easier with anyone else, not named Aaron Rodgers.

Agreed. Rodgers could very much complicate things for a young QB as you're describing. Easy to see why the team would want to avoid that.

 

[RandyDB]

Aaron Rodgers' 2024 stats 3,897 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions are quite similar to J.J. McCarthy's 2025 projections, which estimate 3,929 passing yards, 27.2 touchdowns, and 15.9 interceptions.

That certainly makes for an interesting debate. While Rodgers has the experience, McCarthy is expected to bring fresh energy to the Vikings' offense. If anything, this comparison strengthens the argument that Minnesota is making a reasonable bet on McCarthy rather than chasing Rodgers. But I can't help but believe that Rodgers would exceed McCarthy's projections if he was signed by the Vikings.

https://g.espncdn.com/s/ffldraftkit/25/NFLDK2025_CS_ClayProjections2025.pdf

Thanks. I'd have to think Rodgers cast and coaching if he were to be in Minnesota would be an upgrade over what he had in NY.

But it's an interesting discussion.

And as I've said, I fully understand not adding Rodgers if you think McCarthy is fully healthy and you like what you're seeing in practice. They drafted him that high for a reason and the clock is ticking on the cheap rookie deal. Easy to see why they'd want to play McCarthy if they feel confident.

Adding Rodgers is okay if JJ is ruled out for the entire season. If you add him and JJ can be healthy later in the year, then I think you add someone else and clarify that when JJ is ready this season, it is JJ's job. The problem, I suppose, is that if that person, who is the QB early, has success and is winning, can you bench them and have JJ take over? You can do that a lot easier with anyone else, not named Aaron Rodgers.

Even if JJ was ruled out for season, I would rather give Sam Howell the keys than to ask Rodgers to come in.
At the current stages in their careers, Sam might put up more wins than Rodgers.

 

[Joe Bryant]

I know you have been beating the drum for the 8th in passing yards thing.

No drum beating. And it's not really a "thing". It's a key metric many leagues use for scoring in Fantasy Football. I will note his 8th in passing yards whenever the discussion turns to last year shows he's not capable of being productive. Obviously, it took a lot of pass attempts.

If he does wind up with Pittsburgh instead of retiring, predicting his passing attempts is going to be fun.

 

[Chaka]

Here's what I don't understand. Rodgers appears to enjoy the spotlight away from the field. His media appearances generate a lot of headlines in the football world and, more-and-more outside the lines.

That's all fine and dandy and, good for him . I don't begrudge anyone for trying to make their mark (and their fat stacks).

What I don't understand is why do the Steelers want him? I understand he is an obvious upgrade over Mason Rudolph (right?) but he is also going to be a big time distraction and I am shocked that Pittsburgh is the team that apparently wants to roll the dice on that.

Going into the off-season, even after they jettisoned Wilson & Fields I would have thought Pittsburgh was the last team that would want to shoulder that kind of "bigger than the team" personality.

What is Pittsburgh seeing that I am not?

 

[IHEARTFF]

They’re probably a little drunk on we’re just a qb away.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

Kaepernick went unsigned because teams decided his talent wasn't at a high enough level to justify the distraction his presence would bring. It's fair to ask if the same is going on with Rodgers.

 

[Chaka]

What I don't understand is why do the Steelers want him? I understand he is an obvious upgrade over Mason Rudolph (right?) but he is also going to be a big time distraction and I am shocked that Pittsburgh is the team that apparently wants to roll the dice on that.

This was my point in the post that someone seems to have deleted.

But that’s clearly “off-field political” stuff, and despite its clear relevance, it is verboten in an ARod discussion because reasons.

I'm pretty sure focusing on the "being a distraction to the team" is fair game when discussing Rodgers.

Him being a distraction potentially has a very real impact on the entire team. It's easy to silo being a distraction from whatever specific thing he said.

 

[jumper]

Kaepernick went unsigned because teams decided his talent wasn't at a high enough level to justify the distraction his presence would bring. It's fair to ask if the same is going on with Rodgers.

Rodgers knows how to read a defense and Kaep doesn’t. That’s why one may have a job and the other one won’t; it has nothing to do with skin color or any of the other stuff.

 

[eighsse2]

Here's what I don't understand. Rodgers appears to enjoy the spotlight away from the field. His media appearances generate a lot of headlines in the football world and, more-and-more outside the lines.

That's all fine and dandy and, good for him . I don't begrudge anyone for trying to make their mark (and their fat stacks).

What I don't understand is why do the Steelers want him? I understand he is an obvious upgrade over Mason Rudolph (right?) but he is also going to be a big time distraction and I am shocked that Pittsburgh is the team that apparently wants to roll the dice on that.

Going into the off-season, even after they jettisoned Wilson & Fields I would have thought Pittsburgh was the last team that would want to shoulder that kind of "bigger than the team" personality.

What is Pittsburgh seeing that I am not?

I think what they see is a boom/bust scenario. Last season he was not great, though not bad. He was coming off of an injury, and the system he was playing in may have made it difficult. Now, his last season with the Packers was not really any better. However, the two seasons prior, he was phenomenal. The chance that he still has that in him is worth something. How much that's worth is subjective I guess.

 

[Joe Bryant]

What I don't understand is why do the Steelers want him? I understand he is an obvious upgrade over Mason Rudolph (right?) but he is also going to be a big time distraction and I am shocked that Pittsburgh is the team that apparently wants to roll the dice on that.

Going into the off-season, even after they jettisoned Wilson & Fields I would have thought Pittsburgh was the last team that would want to shoulder that kind of "bigger than the team" personality.

What is Pittsburgh seeing that I am not?

I think that's a fair question.

My guess, and it's just a guess as I know nothing inside, is they see a player that's clearly shown he can operate at a first ballot Hall of Famer level. The fact that he's actually done it, and not hoped to have done it is a real thing.

I'm also assuming they are operating like pretty much every franchise in knowing they must have a viable QB to be competitive. And those are few and far between. Teams without a viable QB can be desperate. If Rodgers can be viable with flashes here and there of his former elite level play, I'm guessing they think he's worth a shot.

They also are uniquely positioned with such a well respected head coach and a solid culture that I'm guessing they think they can handle a big personality. The Jets don't have that yet.

All that's just guesses, but that's my guess on what I'd think Pittsburgh sees.

 

[Chaka]

Here's what I don't understand. Rodgers appears to enjoy the spotlight away from the field. His media appearances generate a lot of headlines in the football world and, more-and-more outside the lines.

That's all fine and dandy and, good for him . I don't begrudge anyone for trying to make their mark (and their fat stacks).

What I don't understand is why do the Steelers want him? I understand he is an obvious upgrade over Mason Rudolph (right?) but he is also going to be a big time distraction and I am shocked that Pittsburgh is the team that apparently wants to roll the dice on that.

Going into the off-season, even after they jettisoned Wilson & Fields I would have thought Pittsburgh was the last team that would want to shoulder that kind of "bigger than the team" personality.

What is Pittsburgh seeing that I am not?

I think what they see is a boom/bust scenario. Last season he was not great, though not bad. He was coming off of an injury, and the system he was playing in may have made it difficult. Now, his last season with the Packers was not really any better. However, the two seasons prior, he was phenomenal. The chance that he still has that in him is worth something. How much that's worth is subjective I guess.

That's a good point about boom or bust but the bolded doesn't gel. His bestie Nathaniel Hackett was the OC. It was Rodger's scheme entirely, wasn't it?

 

[Joe Bryant]

What I don't understand is why do the Steelers want him? I understand he is an obvious upgrade over Mason Rudolph (right?) but he is also going to be a big time distraction and I am shocked that Pittsburgh is the team that apparently wants to roll the dice on that.

This was my point in the post that someone seems to have deleted.

But that’s clearly “off-field political” stuff, and despite its clear relevance, it is verboten in an ARod discussion because reasons.

I'm pretty sure focusing on the "being a distraction to the team" is fair game when discussing Rodgers.

Him being a distraction potentially has a very real impact on the entire team. It's easy to silo being a distraction from whatever specific thing he said.

Thank you. Being a distraction is one thing. Some people using the Shark Pool to turn this into a personal Political Forum and going off on things we've asked folks not to do here is a different story. Thanks for understanding the difference there.

 

[osubuckeyeman]

So, the Steelers get Aaron and win nine or ten games. Then what? They go to the playoffs and even win a playoff game. Then what? This has to be a Super Bowl win to make the commitment worth it.

You're rolling with a 42-year-old quarterback next season and still not in a position to draft your next quarterback. I do not understand why any team would bring Rodgers in as a starter. You do an injustice to your team and fan base by continuing to bandage the quarterback situation. Rip off the bandage. Take the pain and go get your future, or at least try.

I know because I lived this with the Bengals. Andy Dalton was just good enough not to win it all. This went on for years,

 

[Joe Bryant]

So, the Steelers get Aaron and win nine or ten games. Then what? They go to the playoffs and even win a playoff game. Then what? This has to be a Super Bowl win to make the commitment worth it.

You're rolling with a 42-year-old quarterback next season and still not in a position to draft your next quarterback. I do not understand why any team would bring Rodgers in as a starter. You do an injustice to your team and fan base by continuing to bandage the quarterback situation. Rip off the bandage. Take the pain and go get your future, or at least try.

I know because I lived this with the Bengals. Andy Dalton was just good enough not to win it all. This went on for years,

I'd guess they're looking at it from a right now window. Rodgers would likely be a 1 year answer, maybe 2 at most.

But at this point, they're not thinking about theoretical scenarios. They're looking at the season opener 4 months away and thinking about this season.

But yes, that "just barely good enough" QB is a tough spot to be in.

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

So, the Steelers get Aaron and win nine or ten games. Then what? They go to the playoffs and even win a playoff game. Then what? This has to be a Super Bowl win to make the commitment worth it.

You're rolling with a 42-year-old quarterback next season and still not in a position to draft your next quarterback. I do not understand why any team would bring Rodgers in as a starter. You do an injustice to your team and fan base by continuing to bandage the quarterback situation. Rip off the bandage. Take the pain and go get your future, or at least try.

I know because I lived this with the Bengals. Andy Dalton was just good enough not to win it all. This went on for years,

This. 100% this.

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

So, the Steelers get Aaron and win nine or ten games. Then what? They go to the playoffs and even win a playoff game. Then what? This has to be a Super Bowl win to make the commitment worth it.

You're rolling with a 42-year-old quarterback next season and still not in a position to draft your next quarterback. I do not understand why any team would bring Rodgers in as a starter. You do an injustice to your team and fan base by continuing to bandage the quarterback situation. Rip off the bandage. Take the pain and go get your future, or at least try.

I know because I lived this with the Bengals. Andy Dalton was just good enough not to win it all. This went on for years,

I'd guess they're looking at it from a right now window. Rodgers would likely be a 1 year answer, maybe 2 at most.

But at this point, they're not thinking about theoretical scenarios. They're looking at the season opener 4 months away and thinking about this season.

But yes, that "just barely good enough" QB is a tough spot to be in.

Then we come back to the question, “is this team a quarterback away from winning a Super Bowl”?

I don’t think anyone actually believes that, nor do I believe the Steelers believe that.

So back to that hypothetical, if they win 9 or 10 games and make the playoffs, and even win a playoff game, all they’re doing is getting a worse draft pick and kicking the quarterback can down the road for another year.

Is a professional football team truly that much in denial about their current situation? Seems like a horrific approach to teambuilding to me.

Then again, they did just bring in DK Metcalf and pay him a small fortune so I have no idea what the Steelers think they’re doing.

Putting all their eggs into the Aaron Rodgers basket (which comes complete with aforementioned generic off field issues/distractions,that shall not be detailed) is truly baffling. Many sports analysts far more knowledgeable than myself seem very confused by Pittsburgh’s approach to this off-season.

 

[Joe Bryant]

So, the Steelers get Aaron and win nine or ten games. Then what? They go to the playoffs and even win a playoff game. Then what? This has to be a Super Bowl win to make the commitment worth it.

You're rolling with a 42-year-old quarterback next season and still not in a position to draft your next quarterback. I do not understand why any team would bring Rodgers in as a starter. You do an injustice to your team and fan base by continuing to bandage the quarterback situation. Rip off the bandage. Take the pain and go get your future, or at least try.

I know because I lived this with the Bengals. Andy Dalton was just good enough not to win it all. This went on for years,

I'd guess they're looking at it from a right now window. Rodgers would likely be a 1 year answer, maybe 2 at most.

But at this point, they're not thinking about theoretical scenarios. They're looking at the season opener 4 months away and thinking about this season.

But yes, that "just barely good enough" QB is a tough spot to be in.

Then we come back to the question, “is this team a quarterback away from winning a Super Bowl”?

I don’t think anyone actually believes that, nor do I believe the Steelers believe that.

So back to that hypothetical, if they win 9 or 10 games and make the playoffs, and even win a playoff game, all they’re doing is getting a worse draft pick and kicking the quarterback can down the road for another year.

Is a professional football team truly that much in denial about their current situation? Seems like a horrific approach to teambuilding to me.

Then again, they did just bring in DK Metcalf and pay him a small fortune so I have no idea what the Steelers think they’re doing.

Putting all their eggs into the Aaron Rodgers basket (which comes complete with aforementioned generic off field issues/distractions,that shall not be detailed) is truly baffling. Many sports analysts far more knowledgeable than myself seem very confused by Pittsburgh’s approach to this off-season.

What would you do at QB if you were handed control of the Steelers today?

 

[Joe Bryant]

@Hot Sauce Guy we've repeatedly asked people not to use the laugh emoji to laugh at other posters posts. Please stop. If you have a different opinion, say it and why. But leave the cheap laughing at emoji's off. We removed the emoji in the past because people couldn't stop doing this. The sentiment was we should suspend the posters unable to be cool with this.

 

[Joe Bryant]

And for sure, everyone is welcome to reply to the question of, "What would you do at QB if you were handed control of the Steelers today?"