Aaron Rodgers is showing the Pittsburgh Steelers that they weren’t wrong to wait for him so long. According to a report by Tom Pelissero, what the quarterback displayed during mandatory minicamp has given hope to Mike Tomlin’s coaching staff.
“The guy that they saw even in very limited minicamp reps, that’s the guy they’re hoping that they have. You just have to cross your fingers that, for the first time in a number of years, Aaron’s going to avoid being really banged up in the early portion of the season.“
What’s intriguing about the situation with Rodgers is whether the veteran will truly turn the Steelers into a Super Bowl contender in a very crowded AFC. For now, all signs are positive.
What was Aaron Rodgers’ contract with Steelers?
Aaron Rodgers signed a one-year contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers worth $13.65 million for the 2025 season, with $10 million of that guaranteed. The agreement gives the team a proven veteran quarterback at a manageable price while allowing Rodgers the opportunity to lead a new offense without long-term commitment.
The contract also includes up to $5.85 million in performance-based incentives, which could raise the total value to $19.5 million. These bonuses are tied to individual achievements like winning MVP and team success such as advancing through the playoffs or winning the Super Bowl.
How long has Aaron Rodgers been in the NFL?
Aaron Rodgers has been in the NFL since 2005, when he was drafted in the first round by the Green Bay Packers. He spent his first three seasons as a backup to Brett Favre, learning the game and adjusting to the professional level before taking over as the starting quarterback in 2008.
From that point forward, Rodgers established himself as one of the most talented and consistent quarterbacks in the league, earning multiple MVP awards and leading the Packers to a Super Bowl victory in the 2010 season.
As of the 2025 season, Rodgers has completed 20 years in the NFL, a rare milestone for any player, especially a quarterback. His longevity is a testament to his football intelligence, arm talent, and ability to adapt his game over time. According to Pelissero, this is the key factor for success with Pittsburgh. The age battle.
“Is he going to be able to sustain that? Not for two practices in June, but through the entire July, August, the entire regular season, and they hope into the playoffs. There’s not a lot of precedent for that There’s not a lot of precedents for quarterbacks outside of Tom Brady to play at a high level beyond age 40.”
What jersey number will Aaron Rodgers wear for the Steelers?
Aaron Rodgers will wear jersey number 8 with the Pittsburgh Steelers, continuing with the same number he used during his time with the New York Jets and in college with the University of California.
Choosing number 8 also reflects Rodgers’ respect for the Steelers’ history. Number 12, which he wore throughout his career with the Packers, is deeply tied to a legendary figure in Pittsburgh like Terry Bradshaw, and Rodgers chose not to take it out of admiration for that legacy. Of course, the team also didn’t open the door to do that.