As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for one of the most anticipated seasons in recent memory, head coach Mike Tomlin offered a rare, personal look at his relationship with Aaron Rodgers and what he expects from the veteran quarterback in 2025.
Appearing on The Pat McAfee Show live from Steelers training camp, Tomlin described the recruitment of Rodgers as anything but rushed. “It was kind of a bromance,” the head coach said with a smile. “I was just excited to get to know the guy on a personal level. I slow-roasted it, if you will. I didn’t try to microwave it.” That patience paid off, with Rodgers now at the center of Pittsburgh’s championship aspirations.
But Tomlin’s expectations for Rodgers go beyond just touchdowns, playoff wins and a Super Bowl. “He’s here in a mindset that’s aligned with us. He’s here to win a world championship for this group. He wants to impart wisdom and share his experiences with young players and give back to the game. That’s just a beautiful place to be.”
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Rodgers’ arrival has already had an impact on the locker room. Tomlin praised the veteran’s competitive edge and leadership, particularly his influence on the defensive side. That could be a key factor for a Super Bowl run.
“It feels pretty good. Just the possibilities. To have a guy like that in your huddle, in your locker room, a part of your group, it certainly gives us great confidence. The way he interacts with the defensive leadership, the way he competes with them and challenges them. It’s a breath of fresh air. We just feel like we’re going to be positioned to be really good because of that iron on iron. That competitive spirit.”
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For Tomlin, coaching Rodgers brings its own motivation. “I like the responsibility of having to deliver for him,” he admitted. “Just the energy and the charge I get from preparing, messaging.”
Despite the outside noise and the pressure that comes with such a blockbuster addition, Tomlin remains unfazed. “I hear it, but I don’t,” he said about the external expectations to win another Super Bowl after more than 15 years. “I’m here to win. I share the same sentiment. That’s just who I am. So, I don’t take it personally. It’s motivation for me. I’m here to deliver for them.”
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