Aaron Rodgers Signs with Pittsburgh Steelers, Shaking Up AFC North
The biggest story in the NFL this week is the official signing of Aaron Rodgers to the Pittsburgh Steelers on a one-year deal. After months of speculation, Rodgers, a four-time league MVP, chose Pittsburgh over other suitors, including the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings. This move makes Rodgers the Steelers’ 10th starting quarterback in the past decade and brings a new level of attention to the AFC North. The Steelers hope Rodgers can provide the leadership and stability they have lacked since Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement. At age 41, Rodgers faces questions about his health and ability to adapt quickly to a new system, but his arrival is expected to make the Steelers more competitive in the 2025 season.
Steelers Continue to Build Around Rodgers with Offensive Moves
The Steelers are not stopping with just the addition of Rodgers. The team recently traded for wide receiver DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks and signed him to a five-year, $150 million contract. They also drafted running back Kaleb Johnson from Iowa to replace Najee Harris, who left in free agency. The offensive line, featuring first-round picks Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu, is projected to be the strongest since 2020. Pittsburgh is actively seeking another offensive playmaker, having contacted the Miami Dolphins about tight end Jonnu Smith and the Atlanta Falcons about Kyle Pitts. The team also brought in veteran wide receiver Gabe Davis for a visit, though he left without signing due to injury recovery. These moves show the Steelers’ commitment to giving Rodgers the supporting cast he needs to succeed.
Power Rankings and Super Bowl Odds Reflect Offseason Changes
The latest NFL power rankings based on Super Bowl odds show how recent player moves have influenced expectations. The Philadelphia Eagles top the list with +650 odds, followed by the Baltimore Ravens (+700), Buffalo Bills (+750), Kansas City Chiefs (+800), Detroit Lions (+1000), and San Francisco 49ers (+1100). The Steelers, despite the Rodgers signing, are ranked 17th with +4500 odds. Oddsmakers view Rodgers as a “nice pickup” but not a game-changer for the team’s championship hopes. At the bottom of the rankings are the New York Giants and New Orleans Saints, both at +25000. These rankings highlight the competitive landscape as teams prepare for minicamp and training camp.
Hall of Famer Dan Marino Voices Concerns Over Rodgers’ Short-Term Deal
Dan Marino, a Hall of Fame quarterback, expressed concerns about Rodgers’ one-year contract with the Steelers. Marino emphasized that while Rodgers remains highly talented, a short-term deal does not guarantee success. He questioned whether Rodgers truly wants to play in Pittsburgh and what his mental approach will be, especially as he gets older. Marino’s comments reflect a broader sentiment around the league that the Steelers’ gamble on Rodgers could go either way. The team’s quarterback room now includes offseason signees Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson, as well as rookie Will Howard. If Rodgers plays this season, he will become the oldest player ever to suit up for the Steelers.
Steelers Seek More Weapons After Trading George Pickens
After trading wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys, the Steelers are looking to add another proven playmaker. The team’s current skill group is led by DK Metcalf, tight end Pat Freiermuth, running backs Jaylen Warren and Kaleb Johnson, and receiver Calvin Austin III. The Steelers have shown interest in Allen Lazard, who previously played with Rodgers in Green Bay and New York. Lazard caught six touchdowns in 2024, making him a potential fit for Pittsburgh’s offense. The search for more offensive talent underscores the team’s desire to maximize their window with Rodgers at quarterback.
Other Notable NFL News: Player Updates and Team Developments
Beyond the Steelers, several other stories made headlines this week. Chris Conley, a former San Francisco 49ers wide receiver, announced his retirement after a 10-year NFL career. Conley plans to return to Georgia to pursue a new career in filmmaking. The Miami Dolphins’ Jalen Ramsey will miss mandatory minicamp, while Denver Broncos rookie quarterback Bo Nix faces criticism for his early performance. Los Angeles Rams legend Aaron Donald put rookie Jared Verse through an intense workout, and Buffalo Bills running back James Cook reportedly feels “disconnected” from his organization. These updates reflect the ongoing roster changes and player movements across the league.
Kirk Cousins’ Future in Question After Rodgers Signing
The signing of Rodgers in Pittsburgh has shifted the market for Kirk Cousins, who remains under contract with the Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons now have more financial incentive to part ways with Cousins after June 1, and a trade could save the team significant salary cap space. Potential landing spots for Cousins include the Houston Texans, who may need quarterback insurance if C.J. Stroud’s shoulder issues persist, and the New Orleans Saints, who lack a proven veteran after Derek Carr’s retirement. Cousins’ situation is one to watch as teams finalize their rosters ahead of training camp.
Looking Ahead: Training Camps and Preseason Storylines
With mandatory minicamps underway and training camps set to begin in July, teams across the NFL are finalizing their rosters and preparing for the 2025 season. The Steelers’ opening game against the New York Jets will be a major storyline, as Rodgers faces his former team. Week 8 will see Rodgers take on the Green Bay Packers, his original team, in a highly anticipated Sunday Night Football matchup. As teams continue to make moves and adjust their lineups, fans can expect more surprises and developments in the weeks ahead.
In summary, the past week in the NFL has been dominated by Aaron Rodgers’ move to the Steelers, ongoing roster changes, and shifting power rankings. As teams prepare for the new season, all eyes will be on Pittsburgh and their new quarterback to see if this bold move can return the franchise to playoff success.