A move like Aaron Rodgers joining the Pittsburgh Steelers for the 2025 NFL season brings strong emotions with it. The veteran quarterback’s delay in giving a final answer has created mixed opinions within the AFC North franchise. In this context, head coach Mike Tomlin faces a challenging scenario.
Internal tensions within the Steelers are becoming more noticeable as the wait for Rodgers continues. Some key members of the Pittsburgh front office are beginning to question whether it’s wise to focus all their energy on waiting for A-Rod’s final decision.
NFL insider Andrew Fillipponi appeared on 93.7 The Fan and shed light on the internal dynamics within the Steelers regarding Rodgers’ potential arrival. According to Fillipponi, not everyone on the coaching staff sees the former Green Bay Packers quarterback as their top choice for the job.
“I don’t think there’s a lot of people over there [in Pittsburgh] that want Aaron Rodgers. I just don’t, and [Mike Tomlin] is the one that matters the most. It’s his decision; it’s his call, and the owner [Art Rooney II] is just along for the ride. I don’t think the offensive coordinator [Arthur Smith] really wanted him either; he wanted Justin Fields,” Fillipponi said.
Tomlin is responsible for the interest in Rodgers
Beyond the staff’s opinions, it’s head coach Tomlin who has the final say in the team’s decisions, and he is determined to sign Rodgers. The Steelers face the challenge of extending their 18-season streak without a losing record. The imminent yet delayed signing of A-Rod would fall squarely on Tomlin’s shoulders—for better or worse.
Fields’ style is more adaptable, something that doesn’t stand out in Rodgers, who is known for controlling plays at his own pace and molding the offense to fit his preferences. This approach makes the pursuit of the former New York Jets player a high-stakes move for Tomlin’s tenure, which could ultimately hinge on how this gamble plays out.