In 2004, the Pittsburgh Steelers selected Ben Roethlisberger as the 11th overall pick from Miami (Ohio), and his rookie season became one of the most successful by a rookie quarterback in NFL history. Roethlisberger went undefeated in 13 starts and earned Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. Despite his strong regular season, his playoff performances raised questions about his long-term potential.
Playoff Struggles Prompt Steelers to Consider Other Options
Although the Steelers advanced to the AFC Championship Game, Roethlisberger’s playoff outings were less convincing. He threw two interceptions during an overtime victory against the New York Jets in the AFC Divisional round, a game that many expected Pittsburgh to win easily. Later, he threw three interceptions as the Steelers were heavily defeated by the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship. These struggles led the Steelers’ front office to rethink their quarterback strategy moving forward.
Doug Whaley Reveals Interest in Aaron Rodgers in 2005 NFL Draft
NBC Sports analyst Mike Florio shared insight from Steelers pro personnel coordinator Doug Whaley, who disclosed that the Steelers considered drafting Aaron Rodgers during the 2005 NFL Draft, provided he was still available late in the first round. Rodgers, a quarterback from Cal, unexpectedly slipped down the board to the 24th pick, where the Green Bay Packers eventually selected him.
“[Whaley] made a comment recently that in 2005, as Aaron Rodgers, now the quarterback of the Steelers, was plummeting through Round 1, the Steelers were considering taking him, if he had made it all the way down to No. 30,”
—Mike Florio, NBC Sports
Rodgers entered the draft as a potential No. 1 overall pick and had hoped to be selected by the San Francisco 49ers, who instead chose Alex Smith. His unexpected fall created a rare opportunity for teams like Pittsburgh to consider him despite already having Roethlisberger.
“Obviously, six spots earlier, the Packers took him at 24. But, Rodgers was in that free-fall, and Rodgers was a potential No. 1 overall pick. He wanted to be the No. 1 overall pick. He wanted to go to the 49ers, but they went with Alex Smith instead.”
—Mike Florio, NBC Sports
Heath Miller: A Valuable Selection Instead of Rodgers
Ultimately, the Steelers passed on Rodgers and used their 30th pick to draft tight end Heath Miller. Miller developed into an instrumental player for Pittsburgh, earning two Pro Bowl selections in 2009 and 2012, as well as contributing to two Super Bowl victories in the 2005 and 2008 seasons. He also holds numerous franchise records for the tight end position, proving to be a highly successful choice for the team’s long-term plans.
Theoretical Impact of Drafting Both Roethlisberger and Rodgers
The possibility of drafting two quarterbacks with franchise potential in back-to-back years would have created significant complications for the Steelers. Florio reflected on the scenario, emphasizing the likely turmoil that would have ensued over who would become the team’s long-term starter.
“Man, that would have been awkward… There was a 20-year gap between Terry Bradshaw and Ben Roethlisberger, where the Steelers didn’t win a Super Bowl. They were competitive, but they didn’t have a franchise quarterback… That would have been something, Roethlisberger one year, Rodgers the next year. Who would have emerged as the long-term option? Presumably one of them gets traded. That would have been a mess.”
—Mike Florio, NBC Sports
Successes of Both Quarterbacks and Future Matchups
Despite initial concerns, Roethlisberger helped lead the Steelers to a Super Bowl victory in his rookie season, buoyed by an effective offense coordinator, a strong running game, and an elite defense. While he was not the focal point of that championship, his leadership in 2008 was a key factor in Pittsburgh securing another Super Bowl title.
By 2008, Aaron Rodgers had finally taken over as the Packers’ starting quarterback after sitting behind Brett Favre. Two years later, Rodgers and Roethlisberger faced each other in Super Bowl XLV, with Rodgers’ Packers claiming the victory, earning him his first ring, while Roethlisberger had two championships to his name. Neither quarterback would return to the Super Bowl after that matchup, but their combined achievements reflect the successful drafting strategies of both the Steelers and Packers in 2005.
Long-Term Effects of Draft Decisions on NFL History
The decision by the Steelers to forgo Aaron Rodgers in favor of Heath Miller, a year after selecting Roethlisberger, shaped the trajectory of both franchises and triggered a ripple effect across the league. Retrospectively, the Steelers capitalized on their strong drafting and team-building strategy to sustain competitiveness, while Rodgers’ opportunity in Green Bay ushered in a new era for the Packers.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Are Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers friends?
A. NFL STATS CENTRAL: Find up-to-date NFL scores, schedules, odds, and stats. Rodgers mentioned that he and Brady eventually developed a “friendship.” Both are fans of the Kentucky Derby, and for a few years, they attended the event together, each bringing their own group and sitting at nearby tables.
Q. How did Aaron Rodgers get so rich?
A. A large part of Aaron Rodgers’ wealth comes from his career in pro football. Over the years in the NFL, his team contracts have earned him a great deal of money.
Q. What did Peyton Manning say about Aaron Rodgers?
A. “I’m happy for Aaron,” Manning mentioned. “It’s a great chance for him. There’s nothing like gaining experience, and Aaron can really support these receivers. I believe the entire team should contribute too.”
Q. Do the Jets still owe Aaron Rodgers money?
A. Some people mistakenly think the Jets owe Rodgers $49 million after he’s gone. This isn’t true. That amount comes from money already paid, spread over future years for salary cap reasons.