The future impact of Aaron Rodgers on Pittsburgh Steelers’ success remains unclear as the team embarks on a new chapter with the veteran quarterback. Former NFL defensive lineman Chris Long expressed doubt that Rodgers will significantly change the team’s trajectory, questioning whether the quarterback switch will really push Pittsburgh beyond its current state of mediocrity.
Evaluating Rodgers Against Previous Quarterbacks
Rodgers is considered the best passer Pittsburgh has had since Ben Roethlisberger, especially compared to quarterbacks from recent seasons like Russell Wilson. Yet Chris Long remains skeptical about how much of an upgrade Rodgers represents. Speaking on Rich Eisen’s show, Long said,
If you were to tell me, ‘hey, I think this is an upgrade over Russell Wilson,’ I wouldn’t say I know that for sure,
and added,
But if it is, how big of an upgrade?
Although many fans and analysts would rank Rodgers above Wilson for the 2025 season, Long highlights how much difference this actually makes for Pittsburgh’s prospects in a competitive AFC North. With elite quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson of the Ravens and Joe Burrow of the Bengals dominating the division, Rodgers may not be enough to lift the Steelers into true contention.
Past Quarterback Changes Have Not Shifted Team Fortunes
The Steelers’ attempt to improve their quarterback situation in 2024, fielding a tandem of Wilson and Justin Fields, proved better than the previous mix of Kenny Pickett, Mitch Trubisky, and Mason Rudolph. Despite the upgrade at quarterback, Pittsburgh’s win-loss record did not improve, fueling Long’s concerns that even adding Rodgers might fail to change the team‘s winning percentage. He warned,
I worry that they’ll just end up in QB purgatory again,
highlighting a pattern of stagnation.
Pittsburgh has recorded between nine and ten wins for four straight seasons, consistently good but not elite, unable to secure a spot as Super Bowl contenders or earn high draft picks to build a stronger foundation. The franchise has also cycled through five different Week One starters in as many years, with Rodgers marking the fifth, and projections already indicating a sixth starter next season.
Challenges of Adapting to Rodgers’ Style and Attitude
Integrating a player like Rodgers into the Steelers’ system might present additional difficulties beyond the on-field play. Long noted potential issues with Rodgers’ high expectations and blunt communication style, especially referencing the quarterback’s well-publicized criticism of wide receiver Mike Williams during the 2024 season. Rodgers took issue with a missed route near the “red line,” an imaginary boundary on the field, which contributed to a costly interception. Long said,
If we end up in a situation where somebody’s not on the right side of the red line, famously, infamously, I could see some stuff like that happening and the growing pains being tough,
pointing to possible internal friction that could arise.
Rodgers is known for his candid remarks and willingness to hold teammates accountable, which often draws intense media scrutiny and can affect team dynamics.
Uncertain Outlook for Steelers Despite Rodgers’ Arrival
While Chris Long does not dismiss Rodgers’ ability to perform and enhance Pittsburgh’s offense, he remains cautious about the prospects for a transformative impact. The Steelers’ persistent position in the middle tier of the NFL standings underscores the challenge of breaking out of the current cycle. Rodgers’ arrival adds a layer of intrigue, but it is far from guaranteed that this quarterback change will overcome longstanding hurdles and elevate the Steelers to championship contention.