NFL Free Agency Grades: QB Aaron Rodgers Signs with Steelers
NFL. In one of the most shocking developments of the NFL offseason, future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers has signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers in free agency. A move that few analysts predicted, Rodgers’ signing reshapes the power dynamics of the AFC and reaffirms Pittsburgh’s commitment to contending for a Super Bowl title.
Let’s dive deep into the implications of this blockbuster move, analyze the deal, look at how it affects both Rodgers and the Steelers, and assign grades for this monumental transaction.
The Deal: Aaron Rodgers to Pittsburgh
After a tumultuous tenure with the New York Jets marred by injuries and inconsistency, Rodgers enters the next phase of his storied career. The Pittsburgh Steelers offered Rodgers a 2-year deal worth $68 million, with $42 million guaranteed.
Steelers’ Quarterback Situation Before Rodgers
Before Rodgers arrived, the Steelers had Kenny Pickett, Mason Rudolph, and Mitchell Trubisky as their quarterbacks. None of the three had fully cemented themselves as a franchise QB, though Pickett showed flashes of potential in his first two years.
With a strong defense and promising young offensive weapons, Pittsburgh was seen as a quarterback away from being a serious contender. Rodgers, even at 41, could be that missing piece.
Why Rodgers Picked the Steelers
According to insiders close to the situation, Rodgers’ decision was based on a few key factors:
- Elite Defense: With T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick, and Cam Heyward, the Steelers boast one of the NFL’s most feared defenses.
- Young Weapons: George Pickens, Pat Freiermuth, and Najee Harris give Rodgers plenty of options.
- Head Coach Stability: Mike Tomlin is respected across the league and brings a winning culture.
- Legacy Impact: Winning in Pittsburgh—one of the NFL’s most historic franchises—would cement Rodgers’ legacy even further.
Free Agency Grades
Steelers Grade: A-
Pros:
- Instantly upgrades QB position
- Pushes team into Super Bowl conversation
- Helps mentor young offensive talent
Cons:
- Risk of injury at Rodgers’ age
- Short window to win (2 years max)
- May stunt development of Kenny Pickett
Analysis:
Pittsburgh took a bold step. With a top-tier defense and a respectable offensive core, they just needed a proven leader. Rodgers brings experience, swagger, and elite arm talent—if healthy, he turns the Steelers into an AFC powerhouse overnight.
Aaron Rodgers Grade: A
Pros:
- Joins a playoff-ready team
- Maintains legacy with a respected franchise
- Likely last chance at a Super Bowl ring
Cons:
- Faces stiff AFC competition (Mahomes, Allen, Burrow, etc.)
- Risk of aging curve catching up
Analysis:
Rodgers finds himself in arguably a better situation than he was in New York. The Steelers offer both stability and competitiveness. If he performs and stays healthy, it’s a win-win for both sides.
Jets Grade: C-
Pros:
- Clears cap space
- Can fully develop Zach Wilson or pursue another QB
Cons:
- No return on last year’s investment
- Lost time, resources, and potentially locker room morale
Analysis:
The Jets’ Rodgers experiment ends in disappointment. After trading assets and pinning their hopes on him, they move on without a clear answer under center. It’s a costly mistake, both financially and strategically.
Depth Chart Outlook for Steelers (Post-Rodgers Signing)
| Position | Starter | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| QB | Aaron Rodgers | Kenny Pickett |
| RB | Najee Harris | Jaylen Warren |
| WR1 | George Pickens | Calvin Austin III |
| WR2 | Van Jefferson | Miles Boykin |
| TE | Pat Freiermuth | Darnell Washington |
| LT | Broderick Jones | Dan Moore Jr. |
Rodgers immediately becomes the undisputed starter, pushing Kenny Pickett to a backup/developmental role. This could either benefit Pickett long-term or signal the end of his starting aspirations in Pittsburgh.
Impact on AFC Playoff Picture
The AFC was already a gauntlet featuring elite QBs like Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Josh Allen, and Justin Herbert. Now, add Aaron Rodgers in black and gold to the mix.
Expectations will skyrocket for Pittsburgh. This move could elevate the Steelers from fringe playoff team to AFC North contender and potential Super Bowl threat.
How the League is Reacting
Player Reactions:
- George Pickens: “Let’s get to work. We’re ready.”
- T.J. Watt: “Rodgers brings championship energy. Welcome to Pittsburgh.”
Analyst Reactions:
- ESPN’s Mina Kimes: “This move is massive. Steelers are back in business.”
- Fox Sports’ Colin Cowherd: “It’s a perfect cultural fit. Rodgers needs structure, and Tomlin brings that.”
FAQ: Table
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| When did Aaron Rodgers sign with the Steelers? | He signed during the 2025 NFL free agency period in early June. |
| What is the value of his contract? | 2 years, $68 million ($42 million guaranteed). |
| Why did he leave the Jets? | Injuries, disappointing team performance, and mutual agreement to part ways. |
| Is this his last NFL contract? | Likely yes. Rodgers is 41 and has hinted at retirement after 2 more seasons. |
| Will he start Week 1? | Yes, Rodgers is expected to start immediately barring injury. |
| What happens to Kenny Pickett? | He will serve as the backup and possibly learn under Rodgers. |
| What are the Steelers’ playoff chances now? | They significantly improve, with many analysts projecting a playoff berth. |
| Has Rodgers ever played in the AFC before? | No. This marks his first AFC stint after playing for Green Bay and New York. |
| How does this affect the AFC North? | It intensifies the competition, especially with the Bengals, Ravens, and Browns. |
| How have fans reacted? | Generally positive in Pittsburgh, though there’s cautious optimism due to Rodgers’ age. |
Key Takeaways
- Rodgers’ signing immediately upgrades the Steelers’ offense and raises their playoff ceiling.
- It’s a high-risk, high-reward move for Pittsburgh, banking on Rodgers’ health and leadership.
- The Jets walk away bruised, having spent significant capital for minimal return.
- The AFC North becomes one of the NFL’s toughest divisions overnight.
Conclusion
The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially pushed all their chips in by signing Aaron Rodgers. While some might view it as a gamble given Rodgers’ age and recent injury, it’s a calculated risk that could finally bring the franchise back to Super Bowl contention. For Rodgers, it’s a shot at redemption and legacy-building in one of the NFL’s most historic franchises.
This move will dominate headlines and conversations throughout the 2025 season—and rightfully so. Whether it results in a Super Bowl parade or an expensive bust remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: