Aaron Rodgers confirmed a surprising health-related rumor involving his former teammate A.J. Hawk on Wednesday, lending credibility to Pat McAfee’s controversial comment made during the 2023 ESPYs. Rodgers publicly acknowledged that Hawk drank his own urine for years in a dedication to his athletic performance.
Pat McAfee initially made the claim in his ESPYs opening monologue, highlighting the extreme measures some athletes take to maintain peak physical condition. Hawk, the Green Bay Packers’ all-time leading tackler, reportedly consumed his urine every day throughout his 12-year <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL career, a revelation that Rodgers later verified on McAfee’s show.
Details Behind A.J. Hawk’s Unique Health Practice
During the 2023 ESPYs, McAfee discussed the sacrifices football players endure to excel, singling out Hawk’s unusual routine. Hawk competed in the NFL for 12 seasons, mainly with the Packers after being selected in the first round in 2006. Known for his toughness and leadership, he amassed 1,441 tackles and became a cornerstone of the Packers’ defense.
“The all time leading tackler for the Green Bay Packers said that he would actually drink his own urine every single day for his 12 year NFL career,” McAfee said. “And it’s that type of commitment in dedication to craft in sport that makes me hammer home the fact that I hope you genuinely have fun tonight.”
—Pat McAfee, Broadcaster
Following McAfee’s disclosure, Rodgers confirmed the unusual practice on “The Pat McAfee Show.”
“A.J. was drinking his piss,” Rodgers said, via “The Pat McAfee Show.”
—Aaron Rodgers, NFL Quarterback
“Yes, we know,” McAfee responded. “OK. You confirmed that.”
—Pat McAfee, Broadcaster
Ongoing Friendship and Personal Privacy Between Rodgers and Hawk
Rodgers and Hawk remain close years after their time with the Packers, as shown by their recent joint appearance at the 2025 Barnstable Brown Gala in Kentucky. During the event, speculation arose when Rodgers was seen wearing a ring on his left hand, sparking rumors about a possible secret marriage.
When questioned about the ring on McAfee’s show, Hawk admitted he had no information about its significance and described Rodgers as a “very private and mysterious” individual regarding his personal life.
Rodgers’ Transition to the Pittsburgh Steelers and Season Outlook
Now leading the Pittsburgh Steelers after previous stints with both the Packers and Jets, Rodgers continues to draw attention both for his on-field performance and his offbeat stories. His 2025 preseason move has been closely monitored amid doubts about how he would fit with Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.
Despite skepticism, Steelers staff have praised Rodgers for his arm strength and leadership during training camp.
“He still throws the ball, for his age, it’s unbelievable his release and how he generates power,” Smith said on Tuesday, via the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
—Arthur Smith, Steelers Offensive Coordinator
Pittsburgh is scheduled to open the 2025 season on September 7 against the New York Jets, Rodgers’ former team, adding an intriguing subplot to the matchup.
The confirmation of Hawk’s unique health habit by Rodgers not only solidifies a remarkable story from the NFL’s past but also sheds light on the extreme dedication professional athletes give to their craft. As Rodgers begins a new chapter in Pittsburgh, both players’ legacies continue to resonate within the league and among fans.