Steelers’ Art Rooney II: Aaron Rodgers ‘Headed in Our Direction’
Pittsburgh Steelers president Art Rooney II has confirmed that there were discussions between the team and star quarterback Aaron Rodgers, fueling speculation about the future of one of the NFL’s most decorated players. While the Steelers ultimately chose not to pursue a deal for Rodgers, Rooney’s comments have drawn attention to the team’s interest in the four-time MVP.
In a recent interview, Rooney opened up about the possibility of Rodgers joining the Steelers, revealing that the Hall of Fame quarterback appeared to be “headed in our direction” earlier in the offseason. The comment comes after weeks of rumors swirling around Rodgers’ future with the Green Bay Packers. The veteran QB, who had spent 18 years in Green Bay, made headlines earlier in the year when he voiced his frustration with the Packers’ management, fueling speculation about a potential trade.
Rodgers, 40, ultimately decided to move on to the New York Jets, but the Steelers’ interest sheds light on the team’s approach to upgrading their quarterback position. The Steelers have had questions at the quarterback spot since the retirement of franchise legend Ben Roethlisberger after the 2021 season. The team had a year of transition in 2022 with Mitch Trubisky and rookie Kenny Pickett under center but is still evaluating its long-term solution at the position.
Rooney clarified that while the Steelers were intrigued by the idea of adding Rodgers to the roster, they did not make a serious push for his services. The team, he said, recognized the “unique” situation Rodgers presented but ultimately felt that their current quarterback, Kenny Pickett, was the right choice for the future. Pickett showed flashes of promise as a rookie, and the Steelers are committed to developing him into the next leader of the franchise.
While Pittsburgh’s focus has shifted back to Pickett, Rooney did express his admiration for Rodgers’ legacy and skill set. The Steelers president emphasized the organization’s respect for the quarterback’s achievements, stating, “Aaron Rodgers is one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, and we have a lot of respect for him and what he’s done throughout his career.”
Rooney also noted that the Steelers’ decision to not pursue Rodgers was more about timing and team-building philosophy than any shortcomings in the star quarterback’s abilities. With the Steelers having secured solid pieces in key positions, they are focused on constructing a team that can contend in the years to come, with Pickett at the helm.
For now, Rodgers is focused on his new journey with the Jets, where he has already begun to develop chemistry with his new teammates. Meanwhile, the Steelers will continue to build around Pickett, hoping that their young quarterback can rise to the occasion and lead Pittsburgh back to prominence.