Aaron Rodgers’ Steelers move confirmed after schedule drop, and he’s already staring down huge 2025 pressure

In what could become one of the boldest moves of the 2025 NFL offseason, legendary quarterback Aaron Rodgers is reportedly set to join the Pittsburgh Steelers. After months of silence and speculation, the veteran appears ready to don the black and gold, possibly marking the final chapter of his illustrious career. NFL insider Tom Pelissero believes it’s no longer a matter of if, but when the deal will be made official.“I anticipate Aaron Rodgers is going to end up committing to play for the Pittsburgh Steelers. It’s a matter of when, not if. It has not changed.”Despite Rodgers remaining publicly quiet for weeks, Pittsburgh has continued to prepare behind the scenes as though he’s their man. Their offseason strategy left little doubt — passing on high-profile quarterback prospects like Shedeur Sanders in favor of Will Howard in the sixth round. It was a calculated move that reflected unwavering confidence in landing Rodgers. Notably, rumors suggest Rodgers had privately issued an ultimatum that may have influenced the decision to skip Sanders, who ultimately landed with the Cleveland Browns.The Steelers’ front office is reportedly comfortable waiting until the final moments before training camp to see Rodgers sign. The 40-year-old quarterback has never been a fan of early offseason workouts, and showing up in August would be nothing new for him.“We also know this about Aaron. He’s never liked offseason workouts. He’s never felt like those things were necessary here,” Pelissero added.Still, Pittsburgh would ideally prefer him to join earlier, allowing time to adapt to their offensive scheme and build chemistry with his new teammates. Among them is DK Metcalf, who trained with Rodgers earlier this offseason — a signal that both sides have been building toward this moment for some time.The quarterback room in Pittsburgh has become an intriguing battleground. Will Howard enters with hopes of earning the starting job after a standout run with Ohio State, while Mason Rudolph returns as a fan favorite following a solid stint with the Tennessee Titans. Yet, Rodgers’ arrival would likely place him atop the depth chart — a final chance to chase another ring with a team craving playoff success.Rodgers' previous campaign with the New York Jets was marked by decline, and with new head coach Aaron Glenn deciding to move on, the writing was on the wall. Ironically, his first test in a Steelers uniform will come against his former team in the 2025 season opener.While former Steelers QB Russell Wilson had aspirations of returning and reuniting with Metcalf, the team made it clear their sights were set elsewhere. Wilson is now with the New York Giants, leaving the door wide open for Rodgers to lead the franchise.A one-year deal is expected, and many believe this season will be Rodgers' final bow in the NFL. It’s a high-stakes gamble for Pittsburgh — but one rooted in faith in head coach Mike Tomlin’s leadership. Since taking over in 2007, Tomlin has never had a losing season, yet the Steelers haven’t won a playoff game since 2017.If Rodgers can spark one last postseason run, he could help restore the Steelers' glory and end his career on a powerful note. For now, all eyes are on Pittsburgh — and on when their next quarterback finally walks through the door.Also Read: Steelers-Jets Week 1 game may not be a coincidence—Aaron Rodgers possibly influenced NFL's Week 1 schedule