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When Aaron Rodgers joined the Pittsburgh Steelers, many fans rolled their eyes. After years of drama, injury, and a brief stint in New York, it felt like another aging quarterback trying to squeeze out one last chapter in an already legendary career. But as the 2025 season heats up, Rodgers is turning doubters into believers — and making the Steelers interesting again.
On a recent episode of The ETC Show, hosts broke down Rodgers' early impact in the black and gold. From his mentorship of rookie quarterback Will Howard to his calculated presence in the locker room, Rodgers seems to be giving Pittsburgh something it hasn’t had in years: a quarterback with a pulse and a pedigree.
The Steelers, long known for a tough defense and blue-collar grit, have floundered offensively since the end of the Ben Roethlisberger era. A parade of uninspiring QB play made the team reliable — but forgettable. Now, Rodgers injects not just talent but intrigue into a team starving for relevance in the AFC.
One of the most compelling storylines isn’t just about his arm, though. It's about his leadership. On ETC, the hosts praised Rodgers' influence on younger players, particularly Howard. Despite a reputation for being aloof in past locker rooms, Rodgers appears more hands-on in Pittsburgh. Maybe it’s age. Maybe it’s legacy. Maybe it’s just the right team at the right time.
Of course, Rodgers remains Rodgers. The show didn’t ignore his off-the-field antics — particularly his terse reactions to recent media questions about his personal life, including his marriage. While some saw it as classic Rodgers defiance, others wonder if the media circus will wear thin as the season drags on.
The real question isn’t whether Rodgers can play — it’s how long he can keep playing. Injuries have robbed him of full seasons before, and behind a still-developing offensive line, the risk of re-injury remains real. It’s all shaping up to be a “boom or bust” year for the Steelers.
If it works, Pittsburgh becomes a legit contender and Rodgers adds one more wild twist to his Hall of Fame résumé. If it fails, it could be the end of the road for both Rodgers and another Steelers rebuild.
Either way, the Steelers — and Rodgers — are must-watch again.
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