Can Aaron Rodgers lead the Steelers past Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow in the AFC North race?
In a stunning twist to the 2025 NFL offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers have landed four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers in a move that's equal parts bold and unpredictable. The 41-year-old quarterback, long considered one of the greatest passers of all time, is now the newest piece in Pittsburgh's quest to reclaim AFC North supremacy.
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But the big question looms—can Rodgers, in the twilight of his career, still hang with the division's younger elite like Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow?
Pittsburgh's gamble signals a no-holds-barred push for AFC North dominance
This isn't a rebuilding project. The Steelers are swinging for the fences. Coming off a playoff appearance last year, Pittsburgh made it clear that they're not satisfied with being good—they want to be great. Rodgers brings championship pedigree and a deep understanding of the game that younger quarterbacks simply haven't acquired. But is that enough?
Calling the move a gamble isn't an exaggeration.
Rodgers, though incredibly seasoned, is also coming off an injury-riddled tenure with the New York Jets, one that never quite delivered on its hype. Still, for a franchise steeped in tradition and known for its resilience, his arrival injects instant credibility and high expectations.
Facing off against the AFC North's finest: Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow
The AFC North is arguably the most competitive division in football, and Rodgers will be immediately tested. Lamar Jackson, fresh off back-to-back division titles with the Baltimore Ravens, continues to redefine what a dual-threat quarterback can be.
Meanwhile, Joe Burrow remains a consistent threat for the Bengals, whose offense thrives on his elite accuracy and poise under pressure.
The Steelers haven't won the division since 2020, and Rodgers isn't just expected to be an upgrade—he's expected to be the difference-maker.
A Thursday night clash with Cincinnati could be a turning point
Early in the season, Rodgers will go head-to-head with Burrow in a much-anticipated Thursday Night Football showdown. That game could offer the clearest look yet at whether this high-risk, high-reward move will pay off.
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Rodgers' presence instantly changes the locker room dynamic, not to mention the expectations from the fanbase. While the AFC North remains a brutal gauntlet, the Steelers now have a Hall of Fame-caliber field general leading the charge.
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Will it be enough? Or will Rodgers discover that experience alone can't hold off the next generation of stars? Either way, Pittsburgh is all in—and the rest of the NFL is watching.
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Time of India
10 hours ago
- Time of India
Can Aaron Rodgers lead the Steelers past Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow in the AFC North race?
In a stunning twist to the 2025 NFL offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers have landed four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers in a move that's equal parts bold and unpredictable. The 41-year-old quarterback, long considered one of the greatest passers of all time, is now the newest piece in Pittsburgh's quest to reclaim AFC North supremacy. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now But the big question looms—can Rodgers, in the twilight of his career, still hang with the division's younger elite like Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow? Pittsburgh's gamble signals a no-holds-barred push for AFC North dominance This isn't a rebuilding project. The Steelers are swinging for the fences. Coming off a playoff appearance last year, Pittsburgh made it clear that they're not satisfied with being good—they want to be great. Rodgers brings championship pedigree and a deep understanding of the game that younger quarterbacks simply haven't acquired. But is that enough? Calling the move a gamble isn't an exaggeration. Rodgers, though incredibly seasoned, is also coming off an injury-riddled tenure with the New York Jets, one that never quite delivered on its hype. Still, for a franchise steeped in tradition and known for its resilience, his arrival injects instant credibility and high expectations. Facing off against the AFC North's finest: Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow The AFC North is arguably the most competitive division in football, and Rodgers will be immediately tested. Lamar Jackson, fresh off back-to-back division titles with the Baltimore Ravens, continues to redefine what a dual-threat quarterback can be. Meanwhile, Joe Burrow remains a consistent threat for the Bengals, whose offense thrives on his elite accuracy and poise under pressure. The Steelers haven't won the division since 2020, and Rodgers isn't just expected to be an upgrade—he's expected to be the difference-maker. A Thursday night clash with Cincinnati could be a turning point Early in the season, Rodgers will go head-to-head with Burrow in a much-anticipated Thursday Night Football showdown. That game could offer the clearest look yet at whether this high-risk, high-reward move will pay off. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Rodgers' presence instantly changes the locker room dynamic, not to mention the expectations from the fanbase. While the AFC North remains a brutal gauntlet, the Steelers now have a Hall of Fame-caliber field general leading the charge. Also Read: Will it be enough? Or will Rodgers discover that experience alone can't hold off the next generation of stars? Either way, Pittsburgh is all in—and the rest of the NFL is watching.
Time of India
10 hours ago
- Time of India
Are the Steelers just chasing headlines with Aaron Rodgers or building a Super Bowl team?
Will Aaron Rodgers' arrival really boost the Steelers' Super Bowl hopes in 2025? (Getty Images) For the first time since Ben Roethlisberger hung up his cleats, the Pittsburgh Steelers have made a decisive move to reassert themselves as Super Bowl contenders. In a bold but calculated decision, the franchise has turned to another future Hall of Famer—Aaron Rodgers. Nearly a decade and a half after dashing Pittsburgh's hopes in Super Bowl XLV, Rodgers is now being asked to help the very team he once defeated return to the NFL's biggest stage. Has Aaron Rodgers already peaked, or can he still take the Steelers to the promised land? At 41 years old and coming off an injury-riddled season, Aaron Rodgers is far from a guaranteed solution. Yet he brings undeniable star power and leadership credentials to a franchise that has lacked both at the quarterback position since Roethlisberger's departure. With four league MVP awards to his name, Rodgers has nothing left to prove—except that he can still win at the highest level. There's no question this move involves risk. His age and recent Achilles injury raise valid concerns. His 2023 campaign was uneven, and while he remained in the top 10 in passing yards and touchdowns, he did so amid a revolving door of coaches and offensive instability in New York. Despite the adversity, Rodgers remained remarkably durable, not missing a game even while battling multiple injuries. That kind of toughness is exactly what Mike Tomlin is betting on. Tomlin, ever the gambler when it counts, is staying true to his own words. He's often said, "I don't live in my fears," and this decision is a testament to that mindset. After an unsuccessful attempt to bring back Justin Fields—who now ironically replaces Rodgers with the Jets—Tomlin is banking on Rodgers to bring stability, leadership, and a spark to a roster brimming with defensive talent but in desperate need of an offensive identity. There's a blueprint for late-career quarterback success, and it belongs to Tom Brady. The former Patriots and Buccaneers signal-caller thrived in his 40s because the teams around him played to his strengths and insulated him from his limitations. Rodgers, while still capable of elite throws, no longer has the mobility that once made him so elusive in the pocket. The Steelers must protect him like they did Roethlisberger in his final years—when the offensive line kept him upright and untouched for long stretches. Fortunately for Pittsburgh, that may be within reach. Their offensive line, though still developing, holds immense promise. The projected starters include first-round tackles Broderick Jones and rookie Troy Fautanu, seasoned Pro Bowl guard Isaac Seumalo, and second-year interior linemen Zach Frazier and Mason McCormick. If this group gels, Rodgers will have the time he needs to make his reads and utilize his weapons. And speaking of weapons—Rodgers will not be short on firepower. DK Metcalf headlines the receiving corps, bringing a mix of size, speed, and elite athleticism. Rodgers has already begun offseason workouts with Metcalf, a sign that their chemistry is being built early. Meanwhile, Calvin Austin III is a player whose dedication hasn't gone unnoticed. The coaching staff has lauded his work ethic, and his ability to stretch the field could complement Rodgers' deep-ball accuracy. Pat Freiermuth gives Rodgers a dependable tight end, especially in red zone situations. Although George Pickens was recently traded to the Cowboys, reports suggest the front office is actively looking to acquire another proven receiver. There's also buzz around Roman Wilson, who missed his rookie season due to injury but has reportedly impressed in offseason activities. If Wilson can contribute and the Steelers land another reliable target, Rodgers could have a well-rounded supporting cast—something he rarely enjoyed during his final years in Green Bay and brief stint with the Jets. The move to bring in Rodgers isn't just about offensive upgrades—it's also a message to the team's aging defensive stars. T.J. Watt, Cameron Heyward, and Minkah Fitzpatrick have all given years of elite performance to Pittsburgh, and their championship window is narrowing. The franchise owes it to them to push all-in while they're still capable of game-changing impact. Rodgers offers that push. While he may not be the MVP-caliber player he once was, he doesn't have to be. If the Steelers can play complementary football, protect Rodgers, and let him manage games efficiently, they could find themselves in contention for their first deep postseason run since 2016. Aaron Rodgers' arrival in Pittsburgh would've once shaken the betting world. But this time? The sportsbooks didn't even blink. Despite the Steelers landing a future Hall of Famer, the Super Bowl odds remained untouched. According to DraftKings Sports, Pittsburgh sat at +4000 before Rodgers reportedly signed—and they're still there now. Ben Fawkes of Yahoo Sports also noted that BetMGM kept the Steelers at 45-1. 'The odds haven't changed because the Rodgers move has been expected,' Fawkes explained, and Pittsburgh initially opened at 80-1. It's not that Rodgers doesn't elevate the Steelers, but oddsmakers clearly see gaps compared to powerhouses like the Bills (+700), Chiefs (+750), and Bengals (+2000). Even the Chargers and Broncos, both sitting at +2500, are seen as safer bets. So while the Rodgers move creates buzz in Pittsburgh, Vegas isn't adjusting just yet—perhaps waiting to see if the 41-year-old legend still has enough left to move the needle on the field. Aaron Rodgers' arrival in Pittsburgh is not just a headline—it's a mission statement. The Steelers are no longer content with rebuilding or treading water. They're ready to chase a Super Bowl. Whether that dream becomes reality depends on how well they protect their quarterback, support his arm with explosive playmakers, and follow the same formula that allowed Tom Brady to defy Father Time. Rodgers is ready for one last ride. The Steelers are giving him the keys. Now, it's up to both parties to drive it all the way to February. Also Read: 'Queen of Buffalo' Hailee Steinfeld finally shares exclusive wedding photo with Josh Allen, revealing gorgeous rings
Time of India
12 hours ago
- Time of India
What if Matthew Stafford was a Steeler? The surprising scenario reshaping Aaron Rodgers' future
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