Aaron Rodgers has officially announced his NFL plans by signing a one-year contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers ahead of the 2024 season. The 4-time NFL MVP aims to take the helm as the Steelers’ starting quarterback, seeking a fresh start after a challenging period with the New York Jets.
Despite Rodgers’ impressive career, some analysts remain skeptical about his potential impact given his recent struggles, including missing an entire season due to an ACL injury during his tenure with the Jets. Former Steelers cornerback Joe Haden offered Rodgers straightforward advice before his debut with the team, emphasizing the importance of leadership and consistency on the field.
Veteran Advice for Rodgers as He Joins the Steelers
Joe Haden, a 3-time Pro Bowler who played for Pittsburgh from 2017 to 2021, spoke candidly about Rodgers’ arrival. Appearing on the ‘Up & Adams’ show, Haden stressed the importance of Rodgers maintaining composure and playing smart football, noting the strength of Pittsburgh’s defense.
“I think at the end of the day, him playing for the Steelers, like they have a really good organization,” Haden said. “He doesn’t have to do too crazy. Like, don’t mess it up. Like don’t be out there messing things up, be a good leader… make the right pass, don’t be turning the ball over. We have a great defense at Pittsburgh. So like, don’t mess it up.”
—Joe Haden, Former Steelers Cornerback
Along with Rodgers, the Steelers selected Ohio State quarterback Will Howard in this year’s draft. However, Howard is expected to develop under Rodgers’ guidance during his rookie season, learning the nuances of the NFL behind the veteran quarterback.
Tom Arth to Coach Rodgers, Rekindling Past Connection
The Steelers appointed Tom Arth as the quarterbacks coach in February 2024, reuniting him with Rodgers from their shared time with the Green Bay Packers in 2006. Although Arth’s playing career primarily unfolded in the Canadian Football League, he now faces the unique opportunity to coach one of the league’s most accomplished quarterbacks.
During an interview, Arth expressed his enthusiasm for working with Rodgers, highlighting both personal and professional growth opportunities from the matchup.
“I certainly think it’s helpful for me for sure, just having a history with Aaron,” Arth said when questioned about his thoughts on training Rodgers. “I was very excited to see him… He’s here in Pittsburgh and I have a chance to work with him on a daily basis- it’s really a special opportunity for me, for a lot of different reasons, personal and just the growth it will provide me as a coach.”
—Tom Arth, Pittsburgh Steelers Quarterbacks Coach
“Being able to learn from him is going to be very valuable for my development.”
—Tom Arth, Pittsburgh Steelers Quarterbacks Coach
Steelers Aim to End Playoff Drought with Rodgers at Quarterback
Head coach Mike Tomlin has struggled to lead the Steelers back to the Super Bowl since falling to Rodgers’ Packers in Super Bowl XLV. The addition of Rodgers is seen as a crucial step toward reigniting Pittsburgh’s championship ambitions and overcoming recent playoff disappointments.
With a strong defensive unit in place and Rodgers expected to provide veteran leadership, the Steelers hope this season will break their streak of missed opportunities and bring a Lombardi Trophy back to Pittsburgh for the first time since 2008.