QB Aaron Rodgers, PIT (8 Viewers)

[Tau837]

I admit that Rodgers “was” an elite QB and likely will make the Hall of Fame.

he is definitely a 1st ballot HoFer

LOL at “likely”.

 

[JohnnyU]

I admit that Rodgers “was” an elite QB and likely will make the Hall of Fame.

he is definitely a 1st ballot HoFer

LOL at “likely”.

Yep, likely is funny

 

[fatness]

Aaron Rodgers has officially signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, but he wasn't the first option — or second — according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The four-time NFL MVP and former Super Bowl champion is on a one-year deal after ending his free agency. And while Rodgers was the best "available" choice according to Schefter, owner Art Rooney II and the Steelers had to go with the hand they were dealt. "This was the third option for the Pittsburgh Steelers," Schefter said Friday on NFL Live. "They were in on Matthew Stafford and couldn't get done a trade. They tried to re-sign Justin Fields, he opted to go to the New York Jets, where he will meet Rodgers on opening day. And after they couldn't get a trade done for Stafford and couldn't get Fields re-signed, they pivoted to Rodgers."

So the Steelers couldn't pry Stafford from LA (not surprising), then missed out on Fields (either their offer was too cheap or Fields didn't trust them after his benching) who signed elsewhere, then signed Rodgers. I'd like to know more about their talks with Fields. I know the benching last year had to be tough on him, though he took it very professionally. Then Wilson replaced him and started off like gangbusters, and then began a decline that lasted the rest of the season. Were the Steelers just making Fields a cheap offer or did he not sign with them for other reasons?

 

[Joe Bryant]

So good.

https://x.com/rotounderworld/status/1931363666508615817?s=46&t=8Xy9jFHXx35aygdddiknCQ

 

[The Longtime Lurker]

Aaron Rodgers has officially signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, but he wasn't the first option — or second — according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The four-time NFL MVP and former Super Bowl champion is on a one-year deal after ending his free agency. And while Rodgers was the best "available" choice according to Schefter, owner Art Rooney II and the Steelers had to go with the hand they were dealt. "This was the third option for the Pittsburgh Steelers," Schefter said Friday on NFL Live. "They were in on Matthew Stafford and couldn't get done a trade. They tried to re-sign Justin Fields, he opted to go to the New York Jets, where he will meet Rodgers on opening day. And after they couldn't get a trade done for Stafford and couldn't get Fields re-signed, they pivoted to Rodgers."

So the Steelers couldn't pry Stafford from LA (not surprising), then missed out on Fields (either their offer was too cheap or Fields didn't trust them after his benching) who signed elsewhere, then signed Rodgers. I'd like to know more about their talks with Fields. I know the benching last year had to be tough on him, though he took it very professionally. Then Wilson replaced him and started off like gangbusters, and then began a decline that lasted the rest of the season. Were the Steelers just making Fields a cheap offer or did he not sign with them for other reasons?

Wait, they wanted Fields back instead of Rodgers? Stafford i get, but Fields? Since it's Schefter I'll trust the source, but that seems pretty strange for the reasons you stated and would also like to know what the talks with him were like.

 

[Faust]

Welcome to Aaron Rodgers’s Final Chapter

 

[The Longtime Lurker]

So good.

https://x.com/rotounderworld/status/1931363666508615817?s=46&t=8Xy9jFHXx35aygdddiknCQ

Accurate

 

[Joe Bryant]

A well written look at how this season might go. https://www.theringer.com/2025/06/1...mlin-pittsburgh-steelers-partnership-minicamp

Author's main point is Tomlin and Rodgers and Smith all need to be more aggressive in the passing game. As noted earlier in the thread, that hasn't been Rodgers game in the past. Interceptions are poison and he seems to put a higher negative value on them than many. Tomlin, like most coaches, hates turnovers. But seemingly even more than some others.

Now the stage is set for an aging star and a franchise in no-man’s-land to unmoor each other from a stretch of mediocrity. With the right adjustments in the offensive scheme from Tomlin and his staff and some willingness to adapt from Rodgers, this could be the NFL’s best redemption story. But if these two can’t muster up the necessary courage to take a swing at building an aggressive passing offense to compete with the upper crust of the AFC, then an unceremonious send-off may be exactly the football justice this duo deserves.

Taking more risks always sounds great. Just like going for it on 4th down almost every time. Until it doesn't. It's easy for sportswriters and us to knowingly explain to people that they just simply need to take more risks. We're not the ones who get fired for the turnovers. But there's also the element of how much reward is likely in justifying the risk. How that plays out in Pittsburgh this year will be fascinating to watch.

 

[Drunken Cowboy]

A well written look at how this season might go. https://www.theringer.com/2025/06/1...mlin-pittsburgh-steelers-partnership-minicamp

Author's main point is Tomlin and Rodgers and Smith all need to be more aggressive in the passing game. As noted earlier in the thread, that hasn't been Rodgers game in the past. Interceptions are poison and he seems to put a higher negative value on them than many. Tomlin, like most coaches, hates turnovers. But seemingly even more than some others.

Now the stage is set for an aging star and a franchise in no-man’s-land to unmoor each other from a stretch of mediocrity. With the right adjustments in the offensive scheme from Tomlin and his staff and some willingness to adapt from Rodgers, this could be the NFL’s best redemption story. But if these two can’t muster up the necessary courage to take a swing at building an aggressive passing offense to compete with the upper crust of the AFC, then an unceremonious send-off may be exactly the football justice this duo deserves.

Taking more risks always sounds great. Just like going for it on 4th down almost every time. Until it doesn't. It's easy for sportswriters and us to knowingly explain to people that they just simply need to take more risks. We're not the ones who get fired for the turnovers. But there's also the element of how much reward is likely in justifying the risk. How that plays out in Pittsburgh this year will be fascinating to watch.

I think this passing game could be explosive without being overly risky. They need to throw to the deep middle, which is typically risky. However with Rodgers reading defenses and Smith's play action scheme pulling LB's up. It should be much lower risk than normal.

 

[Joe Bryant]

A well written look at how this season might go. https://www.theringer.com/2025/06/1...mlin-pittsburgh-steelers-partnership-minicamp

Author's main point is Tomlin and Rodgers and Smith all need to be more aggressive in the passing game. As noted earlier in the thread, that hasn't been Rodgers game in the past. Interceptions are poison and he seems to put a higher negative value on them than many. Tomlin, like most coaches, hates turnovers. But seemingly even more than some others.

Now the stage is set for an aging star and a franchise in no-man’s-land to unmoor each other from a stretch of mediocrity. With the right adjustments in the offensive scheme from Tomlin and his staff and some willingness to adapt from Rodgers, this could be the NFL’s best redemption story. But if these two can’t muster up the necessary courage to take a swing at building an aggressive passing offense to compete with the upper crust of the AFC, then an unceremonious send-off may be exactly the football justice this duo deserves.

Taking more risks always sounds great. Just like going for it on 4th down almost every time. Until it doesn't. It's easy for sportswriters and us to knowingly explain to people that they just simply need to take more risks. We're not the ones who get fired for the turnovers. But there's also the element of how much reward is likely in justifying the risk. How that plays out in Pittsburgh this year will be fascinating to watch.

I think this passing game could be explosive without being overly risky. They need to throw to the deep middle, which is typically risky. However with Rodgers reading defenses and Smith's play action scheme pulling LB's up. It should be much lower risk than normal.

Let's hope!

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

lol - the Athletic asked Myles Garrett what he thought of Aaron Rodgers being in their division & his reply was “Good opportunity to put him in a graveyard.”

Please do tell me more about how loved and well respected ARod is by other players in the league.

 

[Zeppelin]

Now that Rodgers has finally signed, where would people rank PIT's QB room in terms of real football? There are some really "ungood" QB rooms in the league this year. I have seen PIT rated in the 20-22 range. That didn't strike me as too high or too low. Where do other folks slot the PIT QB group?

For this year I would say higher than that. I expect somewhere around 15th best play out of Rodgers. Rudolph is an average or slightly below backup, so overall the room should be middles of the pack.

Which teams do you rank lower?

@Drunken Cowboy

 

[IHEARTFF]

lol - the Athletic asked Myles Garrett what he thought of Aaron Rodgers being in their division & his reply was “Good opportunity to put him in a graveyard.”

Please do tell me more about how loved and well respected ARod is by other players in the league.

I mean yeah, but dude the Browns need to stfu and win some games

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

mean yeah, but dude the Browns need to stfu and win some games

At least those two games just got a lot more interesting.

 

[Joe Bryant]

Please do tell me more about how loved and well respected ARod is by other players in the league.

I'm guessing Myles Garrett wants every QB in the graveyard. Especially Steeler QBs. Considering how close he almost put Mason Rudolph actually there with the helmet, it's interesting.
Garrett as QB Grim Reaper

I know the stuff about the Jets team voting him Most Inspirational Player or Robert Saleh saying Rodgers knows more than 75% of NFL Coaches or how his teammates love him gets dismissed.

I don't know if this is love and respect, but this was interesting from Josh Allen a few months ago.

Josh Allen Describes His Relationship with ‘Quirky’ Aaron Rodgers: ‘Big Role Model'.​

Link​

Josh Allen is grateful for his relationship with Aaron Rodgers.

Allen, 28, spoke to PEOPLE on Saturday, March 15 at Rodgers' annual RX3 charity flag football tournament in Southern California, where the Buffalo Bills star praised his fellow quarterback for being a great friend and mentor.

"I wouldn't say he took me under his wing a couple years ago, but I got to meet him with RX3, and he's been a big mentor for me and a big role model for that matter," Allen said in between flag football games.

"I mean, I grew up watching him and idolizing him, so it's kind of surreal to sit here and be friends with him and a have a relationship with him, and it's definitely something I cherish."

"He's a quirky guy, Aaron is," Allen said with a laugh, shedding some insight into Rodgers' personality off the field. "You've got to be able to find ways to dig at him just a little bit," Allen explained. "I think he respects it when you do that to him, so I let him have it."

I'm sure one can also find players who don't like him. That's understood.

But to answer the question, it does seem like some players respect him.

 

[Scoresman]

There's a lot of ways to spin the numbers. While Rodgers counting stats were still pretty solid, his efficiency numbers weren't that great. Counting only those QBs that qualified (36), here were some of his rankings . . .

Sack % - 19th
QB Rating - 21st
AY/A - 22nd
ANY/A - 24th
NY/A - 27th
YPA - 28th
Completion % - 30th

Additionally, he performed at his worse when it mattered the most. When trailing with less than 4 minutes to play, his QB rating was 60.9. When trailing with less than 2 minutes to play, that dropped to a QB rating of 23.4.

I posted this almost 20 pages ago. These were Rodgers' efficiency metrics from last year. Do folks think he will do better on a new team and a year older? Also, in terms of counting stats, in terms of passing attempts, PIT had over 100 fewer passing attempts than the Jets did. What do folks project he will have as a stat line?

Agree. He's my 27th ranked QB right now. I project by team and I can't see much more than that on this Pittsburgh team. This is including projected efficiency improvements from last year on just about everything, completion percentage, YPA, etc.

 

[smbkrypt24]

lol - the Athletic asked Myles Garrett what he thought of Aaron Rodgers being in their division & his reply was “Good opportunity to put him in a graveyard.”

Please do tell me more about how loved and well respected ARod is by other players in the league.

Does this at all mean he doesn't respect Arod? That just your interpretation?
Do good players want to

Please do tell me more about how loved and well respected ARod is by other players in the league.

I'm guessing Myles Garrett wants every QB in the graveyard. Especially Steeler QBs. Considering how close he almost put Mason Rudolph actually there with the helmet, it's interesting.
Garrett as QB Grim Reaper

I know the stuff about the Jets team voting him Most Inspirational Player or Robert Saleh saying Rodgers knows more than 75% of NFL Coaches or how his teammates love him gets dismissed.

I don't know if this is love and respect, but this was interesting from Josh Allen a few months ago.

Josh Allen Describes His Relationship with ‘Quirky’ Aaron Rodgers: ‘Big Role Model'.​

Link​

Josh Allen is grateful for his relationship with Aaron Rodgers.

Allen, 28, spoke to PEOPLE on Saturday, March 15 at Rodgers' annual RX3 charity flag football tournament in Southern California, where the Buffalo Bills star praised his fellow quarterback for being a great friend and mentor.

"I wouldn't say he took me under his wing a couple years ago, but I got to meet him with RX3, and he's been a big mentor for me and a big role model for that matter," Allen said in between flag football games.

"I mean, I grew up watching him and idolizing him, so it's kind of surreal to sit here and be friends with him and a have a relationship with him, and it's definitely something I cherish."

"He's a quirky guy, Aaron is," Allen said with a laugh, shedding some insight into Rodgers' personality off the field. "You've got to be able to find ways to dig at him just a little bit," Allen explained. "I think he respects it when you do that to him, so I let him have it."

I'm sure one can also find players who don't like him. That's understood.

But to answer the question, it does seem like some players respect him.

I also didn't take Garrett's comment as a lack of respect more like I am going to try to take his head off every play...just like every other QB he faces.

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

I'm guessing Myles Garrett wants every QB in the graveyard. Especially Steeler QBs. Considering how close he almost put Mason Rudolph actually there with the helmet, it's interesting.
Garrett as QB Grim Reaper

Reportedly Rudolph deserved it, but I guess there’s always 2 sides to every story, eh?


eta: that costume’s hilarious. I’d never seen that one. lol

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

Does this at all mean he doesn't respect Arod? That just your interpretation?

Hard to interpret his comment as anything but disrespect.

I don’t hear other defensive players talking about QB like that.

It’s also probably more of a Myles Garrett thing, as Joe suggests.

 

[The Longtime Lurker]

I'm guessing Myles Garrett wants every QB in the graveyard. Especially Steeler QBs. Considering how close he almost put Mason Rudolph actually there with the helmet, it's interesting.
Garrett as QB Grim Reaper

Reportedly Rudolph deserved it, but I guess there’s always 2 sides to every story, eh?


eta: that costume’s hilarious. I’d never seen that one. lol

Pretty sure the only person saying this was Garrett. Iirc not a single other player, coach, ref heard anything like what he claimed.

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

Pretty sure the only person saying this was Garrett. Iirc not a single other player, coach, ref heard anything like what he claimed.

I’m not saying it’s true, I’m just saying it’s what Garrett said and that there are 2 sides to the story.

 

[pinkstapler]

I'm guessing Myles Garrett wants every QB in the graveyard. Especially Steeler QBs. Considering how close he almost put Mason Rudolph actually there with the helmet, it's interesting.
Garrett as QB Grim Reaper

Reportedly Rudolph deserved it, but I guess there’s always 2 sides to every story, eh?


eta: that costume’s hilarious. I’d never seen that one. lol

Sorry but this situation always did and always will burn me. There are no two sides. There's basically all the players on the field who said they never heard him say anything, and all the players on Rudolph's team (most of them black) who went on to say he would never say something like that, not to mention all the mics on the field and referees and on players that were reviewed by league officials and found nothing, all the camera angles which were reviewed by league officials and a bunch of jobless people online who'd love nothing more than to get a cookie for discovering some mouthed racism..... and then there is Garrett who literally committed criminal assault on the football field and pulled out the one card he thought could get him sympathy. His own teammates not only said they didn't hear anything at the time, but also that they didn't even know it supposedly happened till asked about it by interviewers days later. You know, after that scumbag Garrett came up with it as some kind of poor excuse for his criminal behavior to shirk responsibility while he sat in interviews with a smug grin on his face. Even bringing it up does a disservice to people who actually are victims of racism. He's basically Jussie Smollett. It's disgusting.

 

[eighsse2]

I just saw a Fox News article that Rodgers just revealed he's been married for a couple of months.

 

[Drunken Cowboy]

Now that Rodgers has finally signed, where would people rank PIT's QB room in terms of real football? There are some really "ungood" QB rooms in the league this year. I have seen PIT rated in the 20-22 range. That didn't strike me as too high or too low. Where do other folks slot the PIT QB group?

For this year I would say higher than that. I expect somewhere around 15th best play out of Rodgers. Rudolph is an average or slightly below backup, so overall the room should be middles of the pack.

Which teams do you rank lower?

@Drunken Cowboy

I have not nearly enough interest n this to list out half the league

 

[Zeppelin]

Now that Rodgers has finally signed, where would people rank PIT's QB room in terms of real football? There are some really "ungood" QB rooms in the league this year. I have seen PIT rated in the 20-22 range. That didn't strike me as too high or too low. Where do other folks slot the PIT QB group?

For this year I would say higher than that. I expect somewhere around 15th best play out of Rodgers. Rudolph is an average or slightly below backup, so overall the room should be middles of the pack.

Which teams do you rank lower?

@Drunken Cowboy

I have not nearly enough interest n this to list out half the league

You're the one that said the Steelers were about 15th best.

 

[Uruk-Hai]

I don’t hear other defensive players talking about QB like that.

You ever hear Terrell Suggs talk about what he wanted to do to opposing QBs? There's motive and opportunity for the most inept lawperson to nail him on.

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

I just saw a Fox News article that Rodgers just revealed he's been married for a couple of months.

Just saw that too. Apparently he was seen wearing a wedding ring & asked about it. That’s wild.

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

I don’t hear other defensive players talking about QB like that.

You ever hear Terrell Suggs talk about what he wanted to do to opposing QBs? There's motive and opportunity for the most inept lawperson to nail him on.

I have not, no.

 

[Uruk-Hai]

I don’t hear other defensive players talking about QB like that.

You ever hear Terrell Suggs talk about what he wanted to do to opposing QBs? There's motive and opportunity for the most inept lawperson to nail him on.

I have not, no.

I have. Big Ben was a particular favorite if his

 

[Chaka]

Please do tell me more about how loved and well respected ARod is by other players in the league.

I'm guessing Myles Garrett wants every QB in the graveyard. Especially Steeler QBs. Considering how close he almost put Mason Rudolph actually there with the helmet, it's interesting.
Garrett as QB Grim Reaper

I know the stuff about the Jets team voting him Most Inspirational Player or Robert Saleh saying Rodgers knows more than 75% of NFL Coaches or how his teammates love him gets dismissed.

I don't know if this is love and respect, but this was interesting from Josh Allen a few months ago.

Josh Allen Describes His Relationship with ‘Quirky’ Aaron Rodgers: ‘Big Role Model'.​

Link​

Josh Allen is grateful for his relationship with Aaron Rodgers.

Allen, 28, spoke to PEOPLE on Saturday, March 15 at Rodgers' annual RX3 charity flag football tournament in Southern California, where the Buffalo Bills star praised his fellow quarterback for being a great friend and mentor.

"I wouldn't say he took me under his wing a couple years ago, but I got to meet him with RX3, and he's been a big mentor for me and a big role model for that matter," Allen said in between flag football games.

"I mean, I grew up watching him and idolizing him, so it's kind of surreal to sit here and be friends with him and a have a relationship with him, and it's definitely something I cherish."

"He's a quirky guy, Aaron is," Allen said with a laugh, shedding some insight into Rodgers' personality off the field. "You've got to be able to find ways to dig at him just a little bit," Allen explained. "I think he respects it when you do that to him, so I let him have it."

I'm sure one can also find players who don't like him. That's understood.

But to answer the question, it does seem like some players respect him.

It's not so much dismissing the positive comments, it's that they're easy. You seldom see players or coaches calling other players out, one notable recent exception is Aaron Rodgers throwing Mike Williams under the bus last year. It wasn't egregious but it also wasn't a good look. Criticizing players and coaches comes with far more potential consequences than complimenting them so, I view most of them as "autocomplete" answers.

If you look at all the public comments by players and coaches about players and coaches you would think that the NFL is just one big love fest where everything is all sparkles and unicorns. That seems unlikely to be the reality. I am sure there are a ton more Lattimore/Evans blood feuds out there than we will ever hear about.

 

[travdogg]

Agree. He's my 27th ranked QB right now. I project by team and I can't see much more than that on this Pittsburgh team. This is including projected efficiency improvements from last year on just about everything, completion percentage, YPA, etc.

I'm only slightly higher, 23-26 range for me. In a tier with Bryce Young, Cam Ward, and Michael Penix.

I don't think Rodgers needs to be drafted in a standard redraft league. Obviously, he's even less valuable in keeper/dynasty.

 

[Joe Bryant]

Please do tell me more about how loved and well respected ARod is by other players in the league.

I'm guessing Myles Garrett wants every QB in the graveyard. Especially Steeler QBs. Considering how close he almost put Mason Rudolph actually there with the helmet, it's interesting.
Garrett as QB Grim Reaper

I know the stuff about the Jets team voting him Most Inspirational Player or Robert Saleh saying Rodgers knows more than 75% of NFL Coaches or how his teammates love him gets dismissed.

I don't know if this is love and respect, but this was interesting from Josh Allen a few months ago.

Josh Allen Describes His Relationship with ‘Quirky’ Aaron Rodgers: ‘Big Role Model'.​

Link​

Josh Allen is grateful for his relationship with Aaron Rodgers.

Allen, 28, spoke to PEOPLE on Saturday, March 15 at Rodgers' annual RX3 charity flag football tournament in Southern California, where the Buffalo Bills star praised his fellow quarterback for being a great friend and mentor.

"I wouldn't say he took me under his wing a couple years ago, but I got to meet him with RX3, and he's been a big mentor for me and a big role model for that matter," Allen said in between flag football games.

"I mean, I grew up watching him and idolizing him, so it's kind of surreal to sit here and be friends with him and a have a relationship with him, and it's definitely something I cherish."

"He's a quirky guy, Aaron is," Allen said with a laugh, shedding some insight into Rodgers' personality off the field. "You've got to be able to find ways to dig at him just a little bit," Allen explained. "I think he respects it when you do that to him, so I let him have it."

I'm sure one can also find players who don't like him. That's understood.

But to answer the question, it does seem like some players respect him.

It's not so much dismissing the positive comments, it's that they're easy. You seldom see players or coaches calling other players out, one notable recent exception is Aaron Rodgers throwing Mike Williams under the bus last year. It wasn't egregious but it also wasn't a good look. Criticizing players and coaches comes with far more potential consequences than complimenting them so, I view most of them as "autocomplete" answers.

If you look at all the public comments by players and coaches about players and coaches you would think that the NFL is just one big love fest where everything is all sparkles and unicorns. That seems unlikely to be the reality. I am sure there are a ton more Lattimore/Evans blood feuds out there than we will ever hear about.

Thanks. We'll just disagree there.

I don't think of these as "easy".

Saleh likely caught flak from his coaching friends for going out of his way to say Rodgers knows more than 75% of NFL coaches. That doesn't strike me as easy.

Nor do the Josh Allen comments. I'm sure he's going to say something positive when asked. But the fact he's attending Rodgers event in the first place seems notable. And then to say Rodgers was a "big mentor" and a "big role model" seemed notable. In my experience, that's not the kind of easy "nice" things you say about someone.

But for sure, that's just my experience. And for sure though, not at all surprised to see the positive stuff minimized. All good.

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

I'm guessing Myles Garrett wants every QB in the graveyard. Especially Steeler QBs. Considering how close he almost put Mason Rudolph actually there with the helmet, it's interesting.
Garrett as QB Grim Reaper

Reportedly Rudolph deserved it, but I guess there’s always 2 sides to every story, eh?


eta: that costume’s hilarious. I’d never seen that one. lol

Sorry but this situation always did and always will burn me. There are no two sides. There's basically all the players on the field who said they never heard him say anything, and all the players on Rudolph's team (most of them black) who went on to say he would never say something like that, not to mention all the mics on the field and referees and on players that were reviewed by league officials and found nothing, all the camera angles which were reviewed by league officials and a bunch of jobless people online who'd love nothing more than to get a cookie for discovering some mouthed racism..... and then there is Garrett who literally committed criminal assault on the football field and pulled out the one card he thought could get him sympathy. His own teammates not only said they didn't hear anything at the time, but also that they didn't even know it supposedly happened till asked about it by interviewers days later. You know, after that scumbag Garrett came up with it as some kind of poor excuse for his criminal behavior to shirk responsibility while he sat in interviews with a smug grin on his face. Even bringing it up does a disservice to people who actually are victims of racism. He's basically Jussie Smollett. It's disgusting.

Apologies for the trigger - didn’t realize people were still this fired up about it.

I didn’t actually see any of the follow up you’re referring to, but I’ll take your word on it.

 

[Chaka]

Please do tell me more about how loved and well respected ARod is by other players in the league.

I'm guessing Myles Garrett wants every QB in the graveyard. Especially Steeler QBs. Considering how close he almost put Mason Rudolph actually there with the helmet, it's interesting.
Garrett as QB Grim Reaper

I know the stuff about the Jets team voting him Most Inspirational Player or Robert Saleh saying Rodgers knows more than 75% of NFL Coaches or how his teammates love him gets dismissed.

I don't know if this is love and respect, but this was interesting from Josh Allen a few months ago.

Josh Allen Describes His Relationship with ‘Quirky’ Aaron Rodgers: ‘Big Role Model'.​

Link​

Josh Allen is grateful for his relationship with Aaron Rodgers.

Allen, 28, spoke to PEOPLE on Saturday, March 15 at Rodgers' annual RX3 charity flag football tournament in Southern California, where the Buffalo Bills star praised his fellow quarterback for being a great friend and mentor.

"I wouldn't say he took me under his wing a couple years ago, but I got to meet him with RX3, and he's been a big mentor for me and a big role model for that matter," Allen said in between flag football games.

"I mean, I grew up watching him and idolizing him, so it's kind of surreal to sit here and be friends with him and a have a relationship with him, and it's definitely something I cherish."

"He's a quirky guy, Aaron is," Allen said with a laugh, shedding some insight into Rodgers' personality off the field. "You've got to be able to find ways to dig at him just a little bit," Allen explained. "I think he respects it when you do that to him, so I let him have it."

I'm sure one can also find players who don't like him. That's understood.

But to answer the question, it does seem like some players respect him.

It's not so much dismissing the positive comments, it's that they're easy. You seldom see players or coaches calling other players out, one notable recent exception is Aaron Rodgers throwing Mike Williams under the bus last year. It wasn't egregious but it also wasn't a good look. Criticizing players and coaches comes with far more potential consequences than complimenting them so, I view most of them as "autocomplete" answers.

If you look at all the public comments by players and coaches about players and coaches you would think that the NFL is just one big love fest where everything is all sparkles and unicorns. That seems unlikely to be the reality. I am sure there are a ton more Lattimore/Evans blood feuds out there than we will ever hear about.

Thanks. We'll just disagree there.

I don't think of these as "easy".

Saleh likely caught flak from his coaching friends for going out of his way to say Rodgers knows more than 75% of NFL coaches. That doesn't strike me as easy.

Nor do the Josh Allen comments. I'm sure he's going to say something positive when asked. But the fact he's attending Rodgers event in the first place seems notable. And then to say Rodgers was a "big mentor" and a "big role model" seemed notable. In my experience, that's not the kind of easy "nice" things you say about someone.

But for sure, that's just my experience. And for sure though, not at all surprised to see the positive stuff minimized. All good.

As I said, I'm not dismissing them. I'm saying that they're overrepresented because there is no downside to making them.

Public comments create a very lopsided narrative.

ETA: and I do believe a lot of them are either throwaway lines or trying to curry favor. Saleh's comment, while probably sincere feels a bit like the latter. And Rodgers is pretty notorious for never forgetting a perceived slight.

 

[Joe Bryant]

Please do tell me more about how loved and well respected ARod is by other players in the league.

I'm guessing Myles Garrett wants every QB in the graveyard. Especially Steeler QBs. Considering how close he almost put Mason Rudolph actually there with the helmet, it's interesting.
Garrett as QB Grim Reaper

I know the stuff about the Jets team voting him Most Inspirational Player or Robert Saleh saying Rodgers knows more than 75% of NFL Coaches or how his teammates love him gets dismissed.

I don't know if this is love and respect, but this was interesting from Josh Allen a few months ago.

Josh Allen Describes His Relationship with ‘Quirky’ Aaron Rodgers: ‘Big Role Model'.​

Link​

Josh Allen is grateful for his relationship with Aaron Rodgers.

Allen, 28, spoke to PEOPLE on Saturday, March 15 at Rodgers' annual RX3 charity flag football tournament in Southern California, where the Buffalo Bills star praised his fellow quarterback for being a great friend and mentor.

"I wouldn't say he took me under his wing a couple years ago, but I got to meet him with RX3, and he's been a big mentor for me and a big role model for that matter," Allen said in between flag football games.

"I mean, I grew up watching him and idolizing him, so it's kind of surreal to sit here and be friends with him and a have a relationship with him, and it's definitely something I cherish."

"He's a quirky guy, Aaron is," Allen said with a laugh, shedding some insight into Rodgers' personality off the field. "You've got to be able to find ways to dig at him just a little bit," Allen explained. "I think he respects it when you do that to him, so I let him have it."

I'm sure one can also find players who don't like him. That's understood.

But to answer the question, it does seem like some players respect him.

It's not so much dismissing the positive comments, it's that they're easy. You seldom see players or coaches calling other players out, one notable recent exception is Aaron Rodgers throwing Mike Williams under the bus last year. It wasn't egregious but it also wasn't a good look. Criticizing players and coaches comes with far more potential consequences than complimenting them so, I view most of them as "autocomplete" answers.

If you look at all the public comments by players and coaches about players and coaches you would think that the NFL is just one big love fest where everything is all sparkles and unicorns. That seems unlikely to be the reality. I am sure there are a ton more Lattimore/Evans blood feuds out there than we will ever hear about.

Thanks. We'll just disagree there.

I don't think of these as "easy".

Saleh likely caught flak from his coaching friends for going out of his way to say Rodgers knows more than 75% of NFL coaches. That doesn't strike me as easy.

Nor do the Josh Allen comments. I'm sure he's going to say something positive when asked. But the fact he's attending Rodgers event in the first place seems notable. And then to say Rodgers was a "big mentor" and a "big role model" seemed notable. In my experience, that's not the kind of easy "nice" things you say about someone.

But for sure, that's just my experience. And for sure though, not at all surprised to see the positive stuff minimized. All good.

As I said, I'm not dismissing them. I'm saying that they're overrepresented because there is no downside to making them.

Public comments create a very lopsided narrative.

ETA: and I do believe a lot of them are either throwaway lines or trying to curry favor. Saleh's comment, while probably sincere feels a bit like the latter. And Rodgers is pretty notorious for never forgetting a perceived slight.

No worries. We just have very different opinions on the kinds of things people will say as "throwaway lines". Especially on the record. Calling someone a "big mentor" and a "big role model" feels miles away from a throwaway line.

In my last post I said I'm not surprised at all to see the positive comments minimized. It's what I expected. All good.

 

[Chaka]

Please do tell me more about how loved and well respected ARod is by other players in the league.

I'm guessing Myles Garrett wants every QB in the graveyard. Especially Steeler QBs. Considering how close he almost put Mason Rudolph actually there with the helmet, it's interesting.
Garrett as QB Grim Reaper

I know the stuff about the Jets team voting him Most Inspirational Player or Robert Saleh saying Rodgers knows more than 75% of NFL Coaches or how his teammates love him gets dismissed.

I don't know if this is love and respect, but this was interesting from Josh Allen a few months ago.

Josh Allen Describes His Relationship with ‘Quirky’ Aaron Rodgers: ‘Big Role Model'.​

Link​

Josh Allen is grateful for his relationship with Aaron Rodgers.

Allen, 28, spoke to PEOPLE on Saturday, March 15 at Rodgers' annual RX3 charity flag football tournament in Southern California, where the Buffalo Bills star praised his fellow quarterback for being a great friend and mentor.

"I wouldn't say he took me under his wing a couple years ago, but I got to meet him with RX3, and he's been a big mentor for me and a big role model for that matter," Allen said in between flag football games.

"I mean, I grew up watching him and idolizing him, so it's kind of surreal to sit here and be friends with him and a have a relationship with him, and it's definitely something I cherish."

"He's a quirky guy, Aaron is," Allen said with a laugh, shedding some insight into Rodgers' personality off the field. "You've got to be able to find ways to dig at him just a little bit," Allen explained. "I think he respects it when you do that to him, so I let him have it."

I'm sure one can also find players who don't like him. That's understood.

But to answer the question, it does seem like some players respect him.

It's not so much dismissing the positive comments, it's that they're easy. You seldom see players or coaches calling other players out, one notable recent exception is Aaron Rodgers throwing Mike Williams under the bus last year. It wasn't egregious but it also wasn't a good look. Criticizing players and coaches comes with far more potential consequences than complimenting them so, I view most of them as "autocomplete" answers.

If you look at all the public comments by players and coaches about players and coaches you would think that the NFL is just one big love fest where everything is all sparkles and unicorns. That seems unlikely to be the reality. I am sure there are a ton more Lattimore/Evans blood feuds out there than we will ever hear about.

Thanks. We'll just disagree there.

I don't think of these as "easy".

Saleh likely caught flak from his coaching friends for going out of his way to say Rodgers knows more than 75% of NFL coaches. That doesn't strike me as easy.

Nor do the Josh Allen comments. I'm sure he's going to say something positive when asked. But the fact he's attending Rodgers event in the first place seems notable. And then to say Rodgers was a "big mentor" and a "big role model" seemed notable. In my experience, that's not the kind of easy "nice" things you say about someone.

But for sure, that's just my experience. And for sure though, not at all surprised to see the positive stuff minimized. All good.

As I said, I'm not dismissing them. I'm saying that they're overrepresented because there is no downside to making them.

Public comments create a very lopsided narrative.

ETA: and I do believe a lot of them are either throwaway lines or trying to curry favor. Saleh's comment, while probably sincere feels a bit like the latter. And Rodgers is pretty notorious for never forgetting a perceived slight.

No worries. We just have very different opinions on the kinds of things people will say as "throwaway lines". Especially on the record. Calling someone a "big mentor" and a "big role model" feels miles away from a throwaway line.

In my last post I said I'm not surprised at all to see the positive comments minimized. It's what I expected. All good.

Joe, I did not say that Allen's specific comment was a throwaway line. I said many, not all, of the complimentary pieces we read are very likely throwaway lines.

I do think Saleh's comment falls into the "curry favor" bucket, even if it is also a true statement.

 

[Faust]

Aaron Rodgers joins Steelers, says it was them or not play

 

[Joe Bryant]

Aaron Rodgers joins Steelers, says it was them or not play

Thanks. Very interesting.

PITTSBURGH -- For Aaron Rodgers, continuing his playing career and signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers was a decision that was "best for my soul."

After officially signing his one-year, $13.65 million contract Saturday, the 41-year-old began his 21st season Tuesday by attending the first day of mandatory minicamp at the Steelers' practice facility.

"I don't need it for my ego," the four-time MVP said in his first public comments since April. "I don't need it to keep playing. A lot of decisions that I've made over my career and life from strictly the ego, even if they turn out well, are always unfulfilling. But the decisions made from the soul are usually pretty fulfilling.

This is how I'd seen it. He has nothing to prove anymore. This seemed like something he felt was the right thing. And let's be honest, $13 million helps.

"This was a decision that was best for my soul and I felt like being here with coach [Mike Tomlin] and the guys that got here, and the opportunity here was the best for me and I'm excited to be here."

Though there were discussions with other teams, including the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings, Rodgers said the Steelers were the only true option for his 2025 season.

"There were conversations with other organizations, for sure," he said. "But again, the rapport that fell in between me and Mike made it to where, as I was going through my personal stuff, there wasn't any other option for me. It was here or not play."

I don't know the details of what he's alluding to but it seems pretty clear Tomlin demonstrated he was there for personal stuff as well as Football. That falls in line with his reputation as the coach NFL players want to play for.

More than 70 days passed between Rodgers' covert visit to Pittsburgh early in free agency and him officially becoming a Steeler. He previously said on "The Pat McAfee Show" that he was delaying his decision as members of his close circle dealt with "difficult stuff."

He said he signed now because those circumstances were getting better.

"I was dealing with a lot of things in my personal life, and some things improved a little bit where I felt like I could fully be all in here with the guys," said Rodgers, who added later he got married within the past couple of months. "Had a great conversation with Mike throughout the entire process and Omar [Khan, Steelers GM], but it's good to get that done and get behind us."

Sounds like Tomlin was the key factor in him going there. Again, that one made sense as two old veterans bound for Canton seemingly have mutual respect.

Rodgers reiterated that Tomlin was the primary draw for him, and the pair remained in contact throughout his prolonged decision-making process.

"It starts with Mike Tomlin," Rodgers said. "I've been a fan of his for a long time. There's a few iconic franchises in the NFL. I played for one of 'em for 18 years. This is another one of those. There's something special about obviously this area. So many great quarterbacks are from Pittsburgh. I feel like Pittsburgh has been a part of my career from the beginning."

Not too subtle shot at Jets.

Rodgers arrived at the team facility at 7:19 a.m, and was greeted by a fan who was quick to tell him that the quarterback broke his heart when the Green Bay Packers beat the Steelers in Super Bowl XLV. At the team meeting an hour later, Rodgers told the team he was "all in," center Zach Frazier said. During the afternoon practice, Rodgers watched all of the team periods and went fourth during the individual quarterback reps behind Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson and rookie sixth-round pick Will Howard. That was by design as Rodgers gets up to speed.

"I'll be really straightforward with you," Tomlin said, explaining the decision. "June reps are a heck of a lot more important for a guy like Will Howard at this stage of his career than the guy who's been doing it for 20 years. And so whatever snaps he gets you take away from a guy like Will Howard, and we're trying to get this collective ready for training camp."

Though Rodgers has been a leader in his other two stops, he demurred when asked if he would take on a similar role within the Steelers' offense.

"I just want to be a servant leader here and just pass on the knowledge that I've had for 20 years, the experience and just try and fit in with the guys, get to know 'em, let them get to know me and just enjoy the process," he said. "This is -- everything's new. It's like the first day of school. I don't know a lot of guys' names. They don't have names on the back of the jerseys here. They don't have names on the doors in the meeting rooms. I literally walk out of the locker room, lost, try and grab somebody, 'Hey, where am I going?' But I'll get the feel of it and I'm excited about making this home."

The stated objection from many was Rodgers not being all in. He's at least saying that. He'll have to prove it and there will be plenty ready to point out if he doesn't.

That last line makes me think Will Howard might be the big winner here. If he truly is on board with "serving" like he says, Howard could get an invaluable boost. He's not in the same situation as Jordan Love, but one would have to think being around a guy that knowledgeable of the game and position would be a plus.

 

[Faust]

Aaron Rodgers announces marriage at Steelers minicamp

 

[Joe Bryant]

Aaron Rodgers announces marriage at Steelers minicamp

 

[sm8680]

I just saw a Fox News article that Rodgers just revealed he's been married for a couple of months.

He married himself

 

[Chaka]

Aaron Rodgers announces marriage at Steelers minicamp

Congratulations to him. I mean that. Sincerely, I do.

Of course there is a "but".

I think this marriage thing represents the little, daily distractions that Rodgers brings with him.

I think Rodgers is a really smart guy, on and off the field. So, if you were a really smart person, living a high profile existence, why would you keep the identity of your new spouse hidden?

The obvious answer is to not draw undue attention to your spouse. But, if that is truly the goal, like you're truly concerned for their safety or mental health if they were in the public spotlight, or whatever, why wear the ring for the first time publicly at your opening press conference?

I think, a really smart person, who lives a high profile existence, with 41 years of life experience understands that playing coy in this situation only draws more attention. I guarantee there is now a feeding frenzy of "reporters" from ESPN to TMZ that are scrambling to uncover his/her/their identity.

A really smart person, who lives a high profile existence would recognize that as a possible, likely even, outcome long before meeting the press.

I really do respect Rodgers's intelligence and knack for gamesmanship, particularly off the field. At the same time I think he's a small minded attention seeker.

I put the odds at 35% that his wife is Jordon Hudson. They were made for each other.

 

[Chaka]

Rodgers plans to workout with his receivers between mini camp and training camp...if...

Sorry, I'm so conditioned to cliffhanger, bait-click headlines, which I hate, that I wrote one myself.

...they come out to meet him in Malibu. Probably not a tough sell, that one.

 

[fatness]

I just saw a Fox News article that Rodgers just revealed he's been married for a couple of months.

He married himself

Allen Lazard is heartbroken.

 

[JohnnyU]

The personal Rodgers hate from those that don’t know him, but think they do, really is odd to me. People need something to make themselves feel good I suppose.

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

Aaron Rodgers joins Steelers, says it was them or not play

Thanks. Very interesting.

PITTSBURGH -- For Aaron Rodgers, continuing his playing career and signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers was a decision that was "best for my soul."

After officially signing his one-year, $13.65 million contract Saturday, the 41-year-old began his 21st season Tuesday by attending the first day of mandatory minicamp at the Steelers' practice facility.

"I don't need it for my ego," the four-time MVP said in his first public comments since April. "I don't need it to keep playing. A lot of decisions that I've made over my career and life from strictly the ego, even if they turn out well, are always unfulfilling. But the decisions made from the soul are usually pretty fulfilling.

This is how I'd seen it. He has nothing to prove anymore. This seemed like something he felt was the right thing. And let's be honest, $13 million helps.

"This was a decision that was best for my soul and I felt like being here with coach [Mike Tomlin] and the guys that got here, and the opportunity here was the best for me and I'm excited to be here."

Though there were discussions with other teams, including the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings, Rodgers said the Steelers were the only true option for his 2025 season.

"There were conversations with other organizations, for sure," he said. "But again, the rapport that fell in between me and Mike made it to where, as I was going through my personal stuff, there wasn't any other option for me. It was here or not play."

I don't know the details of what he's alluding to but it seems pretty clear Tomlin demonstrated he was there for personal stuff as well as Football. That falls in line with his reputation as the coach NFL players want to play for.

More than 70 days passed between Rodgers' covert visit to Pittsburgh early in free agency and him officially becoming a Steeler. He previously said on "The Pat McAfee Show" that he was delaying his decision as members of his close circle dealt with "difficult stuff."

He said he signed now because those circumstances were getting better.

"I was dealing with a lot of things in my personal life, and some things improved a little bit where I felt like I could fully be all in here with the guys," said Rodgers, who added later he got married within the past couple of months. "Had a great conversation with Mike throughout the entire process and Omar [Khan, Steelers GM], but it's good to get that done and get behind us."

Sounds like Tomlin was the key factor in him going there. Again, that one made sense as two old veterans bound for Canton seemingly have mutual respect.

Rodgers reiterated that Tomlin was the primary draw for him, and the pair remained in contact throughout his prolonged decision-making process.

"It starts with Mike Tomlin," Rodgers said. "I've been a fan of his for a long time. There's a few iconic franchises in the NFL. I played for one of 'em for 18 years. This is another one of those. There's something special about obviously this area. So many great quarterbacks are from Pittsburgh. I feel like Pittsburgh has been a part of my career from the beginning."

Not too subtle shot at Jets.

Rodgers arrived at the team facility at 7:19 a.m, and was greeted by a fan who was quick to tell him that the quarterback broke his heart when the Green Bay Packers beat the Steelers in Super Bowl XLV. At the team meeting an hour later, Rodgers told the team he was "all in," center Zach Frazier said. During the afternoon practice, Rodgers watched all of the team periods and went fourth during the individual quarterback reps behind Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson and rookie sixth-round pick Will Howard. That was by design as Rodgers gets up to speed.

"I'll be really straightforward with you," Tomlin said, explaining the decision. "June reps are a heck of a lot more important for a guy like Will Howard at this stage of his career than the guy who's been doing it for 20 years. And so whatever snaps he gets you take away from a guy like Will Howard, and we're trying to get this collective ready for training camp."

Though Rodgers has been a leader in his other two stops, he demurred when asked if he would take on a similar role within the Steelers' offense.

"I just want to be a servant leader here and just pass on the knowledge that I've had for 20 years, the experience and just try and fit in with the guys, get to know 'em, let them get to know me and just enjoy the process," he said. "This is -- everything's new. It's like the first day of school. I don't know a lot of guys' names. They don't have names on the back of the jerseys here. They don't have names on the doors in the meeting rooms. I literally walk out of the locker room, lost, try and grab somebody, 'Hey, where am I going?' But I'll get the feel of it and I'm excited about making this home."

The stated objection from many was Rodgers not being all in. He's at least saying that. He'll have to prove it and there will be plenty ready to point out if he doesn't.

That last line makes me think Will Howard might be the big winner here. If he truly is on board with "serving" like he says, Howard could get an invaluable boost. He's not in the same situation as Jordan Love, but one would have to think being around a guy that knowledgeable of the game and position would be a plus.

I have a difficult time believing he had any other choice but the Steelers.

NYJ moved quickly to sign Fields (not that they were an option), the Giants moved on Russ, and the Seahawks locked up Darnold. Geno got traded to the Raiders, and the Vikings had to go on record at least 3x by my count to basically say “thanks but we’re not interested in ARod, we have JJM” (paraphrasing, quotation marks only for narrative effect). By my count that left (checks notes, carry the 1) 1 team that needed a QB.

It’s all fine and good for him to say “this was my 1 and only choice”, but IIRC his prior statements were that he was looking at a number of teams. So that seems a bit contradictory.

Honestly don’t really care all that much, but it comes off as ARod massaging his own ego (the ego he claims isn’t a factor) by claiming he had all these choices. I just don’t see that as the situation at all.

But hey, good luck to him in a Steelers uniform. I hope he comes through for their fans, and I wish he & (whoever he married) the best of luck with their nuptials as well.

Back to football...

 

[Hot Sauce Guy]

The personal Rodgers hate from those that don’t know him, but think they do, really is pathetic. People need something to make themselves feel good.

If this statement were about any other player I’d back you up. But Rodgers has spent literally dozens of hours on podcasts & shows, from Rogan to MacAfee, to RFK Jr. etc etc etc.

People actually know more about Aaron Rodgers than arguably any other player in the NFL, because Aaron Rodgers has put himself & his beliefs on full display.

As for, “hate”, and how people here feel about ARod, that’s a projection. This has been discussed previously on this very topic. Personally I have zero “hate” for Aaron Rodgers. I don’t love the dude, and I believe some of his beliefs (or lack thereof) are harmful, as he’s an influential public figure— but I certainly don’t “hate” him.

Maybe some in here do. I can’t speak for anyone but myself, but I haven’t seen anyone say they hate him. He could be described as polarizing for sure.

 

[JohnnyU]

The personal Rodgers hate from those that don’t know him, but think they do, really is pathetic. People need something to make themselves feel good.

If this statement were about any other player I’d back you up. But Rodgers has spent literally dozens of hours on podcasts & shows, from Rogan to MacAfee, to RFK Jr. etc etc etc.

People actually know more about Aaron Rodgers than arguably any other player in the NFL, because Aaron Rodgers has put himself & his beliefs on full display.

As for, “hate”, and how people here feel about ARod, that’s a projection. This has been discussed previously on this very topic. Personally I have zero “hate” for Aaron Rodgers. I don’t love the dude, and I believe some of his beliefs (or lack thereof) are harmful, as he’s an influential public figure— but I certainly don’t “hate” him.

Maybe some in here do. I can’t speak for anyone but myself, but I haven’t seen anyone say they hate him. He could be described as polarizing for sure.

Not referring to you personally, but the moral high ground never ceases to amaze.

 

[Chaka]

The personal Rodgers hate from those that don’t know him, but think they do, really is pathetic. People need something to make themselves feel good.

I am guessing that is, at least a little directed towards me. It's fair to a point, I hope I have been clear that from a purely football perspective I think the drama and distraction he brings, heavily counters any on field advantage he can bring on the field today.

The marriage thing is just a small example of how he likes to draw unnecessary attention. Surely his teammates and coaches will now be asked about his marriage. And when that story blows over, and hopefully it will have a short lifespan he will manufacture another story to draw more media commentary.

It is undeniable that he draws this attention and I believe it is entirely intentional. Rodgers is a really smart guy, I strongly believe that, and there is zero chance he doesn't understand how he is a lightning rod. He curates that persona.

IMO, he absolutely intended to make his marriage a story. If for no other reason than to play puppet master and laugh while reporters scurry to find every last detail about his new spouse.

That's what you get when you bring Rodgers into your franchise. And, I sincerely question whether his skill as a QB warrants that type of distraction.

But, Pittsburgh committed to him early in the process so we get to watch the dance unfold and I love that prospect.

 

[Chaka]

FTR I think it would be awesome if Pittsburgh wins the Super Bowl this year. I may not like Rodgers the person but I respect the hell out of his on field legacy, even with the warts.

I can't imagine a better NFL story in 2025 than Rodgers taking Pittsburgh to another Lombardi.