After two difficult seasons with the New York Jets, four-time NFL MVP and former Super Bowl champion Aaron Rodgers joined the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason. At 41, Rodgers is approaching the final stages of his career and is determined to finish on a high note by aiming for a championship.
In his view, a successful ending means competing for the Super Bowl title, and Rodgers recently expressed confidence that his new team has a solid chance of achieving that goal. During a media session, he stated that the Steelers rank among roughly a dozen teams with a serious opportunity to win the Super Bowl this year.
I think that there’s really only six to eight that really have a legitimate chance. Sometimes it’s 10 to 12, and there’s teams that surprise you, but I would say on paper we’re probably one of those 10 to 12.
— Aaron Rodgers, Quarterback
Rodgers Highlights Team Chemistry and Preparations
Rodgers credits the growing camaraderie among the players and staff during downtime and practice sessions as a key factor behind the team’s optimism. He pointed out that sharing moments together beyond the field—such as in the lunchroom and during breaks—has helped build the chemistry necessary for collective success.
I think it’s coming together, you know, times like this with these 17 or so practices that we have here and finding the chemistry and hanging out with each other in the lunchroom and snack and the different times that we have and, you know, growing together through our practice.
— Aaron Rodgers, Quarterback
Rodgers also offered some insight into the Steelers’ practice routines, noting head coach Mike Tomlin’s strategy of scheduling workouts during the hottest parts of the day. This tactic, Rodgers explained, challenges the team‘s endurance and reveals how they respond under physical stress, a useful measure as they prepare for the rigors of the season.
Examining the AFC Playoff Contenders and Steelers’ Position
While Rodgers is optimistic about the Steelers, several AFC teams have demonstrated strong recent performances. The Kansas City Chiefs, for example, have reached the AFC Championship game in each of the last five seasons, winning four times. The Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals have also been frequent playoff contenders, with the Bills appearing twice in the championship round and the Bengals making two appearances with one victory.
By contrast, the Steelers’ last appearance in an AFC Championship game was during the 2016-17 season, when they lost to the New England Patriots. Although Pittsburgh has made multiple playoff appearances since then, their postseason success has been limited and inconsistent.
Mike Florio, a football analyst from Pro Football Talk, recently identified the strongest contenders in the AFC this year as the Chiefs, Bills, Ravens, Bengals, and Texans. He also mentioned that the Broncos and Chargers have the potential to make the playoffs. Meanwhile, Florio placed the Steelers in a middle group of about 12 teams—those that could either break through or fall short this season.
teams that are definitely not in.
— Mike Florio, Football Analyst
Steelers’ Offseason Moves Signal Ambitions But Questions Remain
Initial speculation suggested the Steelers might prioritize a rebuilding or “tank” season, but their offseason activities suggest a more competitive intent. Pittsburgh traded away one of its wide receivers amid past challenges with that position, while acquiring high-profile players like Jalen Ramsey and DK Metcalf. They have also cemented TJ Watt’s presence by signing him to an extension, strengthening their defensive core.
Despite these upgrades, there is still uncertainty over whether the Steelers have done enough to contend seriously. Much depends on Rodgers’ ability to lead and integrate with this retooled roster, as the season is long and unpredictable.
The Road Ahead for Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers
Aaron Rodgers’ move to Pittsburgh represents a significant chapter for both the quarterback and the franchise. At this stage in his career, Rodgers is focused on maximizing the team’s potential to reach the Super Bowl, a pursuit that aligns closely with his personal ambitions and legacy.
The Steelers have not made a conference championship in several years, and any advancement toward a Super Bowl appearance would mark a positive turnaround. With practice chemistry improving and key personnel additions, the coming months will reveal whether Rodgers’ Steelers can translate promise into playoff success and possibly end their Super Bowl drought.
As the NFL season unfolds, fans and analysts alike will closely watch how this veteran quarterback‘s experience blends with Pittsburgh’s evolving roster. The Steelers’ campaign this year could either reinforce Rodgers’ belief in their championship chances or highlight the challenges inherent in such a competitive league.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Are Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers friends?
A. NFL Stats Central provides the newest scores, schedules, odds, and stats. Over time, Rodgers mentioned that he and Brady developed a “friendship.” Both are fans of the Kentucky Derby, and for a few years, they attended with their own groups, sitting at neighboring tables.
Q. How did Aaron Rodgers get so rich?
A. Over his 20 years in the NFL, Rodgers has earned roughly $380 million, based on Spotrac’s data. Additionally, he has made millions more through brand endorsements and co-founding the investment company RX3.
Q. What did Peyton Manning say about Aaron Rodgers?
A. “I’m happy for Aaron,” Manning said. “It’s a great chance for him. Gaining experience is invaluable, and Aaron’s support for the receivers is crucial. The entire team must contribute, too.”
Q. Do the Jets still owe Aaron Rodgers money?
A. Some might think the $49 million in dead money means the Jets will still pay Rodgers after he’s left. However, that’s not true. This amount comes from payments they’ve already made but have delayed in their cap for future years.