Mike Tomlin’s Steelers key player drops another bombshell on Aaron Rodgers amid decision delay

Aaron Rodgers is nearing a final decision about his future in the 2025 NFL season. His silence, or rather, his lack of confirmation, is causing ripples within the Pittsburgh Steelers roster. During the preseason, a key figure on head coach Mike Tomlin’s team once again spoke out about A-Rod.

At this point, the Steelers have only Rodgers as a possible option to be their starting quarterback next season. Meanwhile, the 41-year-old quarterback is weighing his next move. Pittsburgh has stated that their deadline to wait for him is the start of the upcoming campaign, but patience is running thin within the team.

As the black & gold franchise prepares to move past another disappointing season, the player who sent a strong message to Rodgers is star defensive tackle Cam Heyward, a trusted leader for Tomlin and the Steelers.

What did Cam Heyward say about Rodgers?

When asked if he preferred Rodgers to be present at team-organized activities, Heyward responded bluntly and with indifference: “I don’t care, who says you can’t be better if you aren’t here? To each his own,” Heyward said. This information was reported by insider Mark Kaboly on his X account (formerly Twitter).

Cameron Heyward #97 of the Pittsburgh Steelers looks on during the first half of the AFC Wild Card Playoff game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on January 11, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.

In March, Rodgers visited the Steelers’ facilities and met with the coaching staff led by Mike Tomlin, but left without signing a contract. Days later, it became known that he had not accepted Pittsburgh’s offer due to personal reasons.

see also

NFL News: Mike Tomlin’s Steelers reportedly have new final deadline to wait on Aaron Rodgers

Cam Heyward had already sent a strong message to Rodgers earlier

“Either you want to be a Pittsburgh Steeler, or you don’t. It’s that simple. That’s the idea,” Heyward said, referring to the franchise’s initial interest in Rodgers. Although the veteran defensive tackle claimed his words were misunderstood, he is now sending another message to A-Rod, who has yet to participate in the Steelers’ OTAs amid his pending arrival.