Aaron Rodgers will go down as a short-lived chapter in New York Jets history, one that’s remembered more for the hype than the outcome. Both years slipped through his fingers, with injuries and on-field result matters keeping him away from what he truly wanted – playing. That might be why he recently hinted that “personal issues” are keeping him from signing with another team. But here’s what’s interesting. Mike Tomlin’s Pittsburgh Steelers haven’t exactly closed the door. They’re still holding the pen and paper, just in case Rodgers decides to write a new start. After all, why would Tomlin sit with him for six hours and stay in touch if there wasn’t something still on the table? Maybe, just maybe, there’s still a chance we see Rodgers in black and gold.
Through all the buzz, Mike Tomlin and the Steelers quietly made a move for their future. They signed rookie QB Will Howard, a sixth-round pick, locking him in on a four-year deal. After welcoming the young player, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith sounded pumped about it, too. He said, “Obviously, we’re really excited to add Will to our quarterback room.” So, the entire team and the QB himself are happy to be together in Pittsburgh. But if you ask Howard, the real dream might still be on the horizon.
On Tuesday’s Up & Adams Show with Kay Adams, Howard opened up about his childhood football hero, Aaron Rodgers. When asked if he looked up to A-Rod growing up, Howard didn’t hesitate: “Idolizing growing up.” Simple and honest. He made it clear he hasn’t heard anything from the team about Rodgers possibly joining, but his eyes lit up at the idea of learning from him. “I don’t know what’s going to happen, who knows, that’s all over my head. But, you know, I’d love to be in a room and learn from him. Again, who knows what’s going to happen? I have no idea, that’s above my head.” Hmmm….You can tell, this kid’s dreaming big, and who knows, maybe that door isn’t shut just yet for his idol?
Will Howard has spent four years grinding at Kansas State, then made a bold move by transferring to Ohio State for one final attempt. And wow, he did deliver. He led the Buckeyes to a national championship in 2024. He recorded over 4,000 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, and only 10 picks last season. But here’s what really stands out: he makes quick decisions and still takes deep attempts. That balance is rare. It’s something which he might have seen in Aaron Rodgers’ game and learnt from him.
Now, Howard is in Pittsburgh, back with Skylar Thompson, his old Kansas State teammate. For him, QB Mason Rudolph’s still there, too. But Steelers fans, especially those who love Ohio State, can’t stop talking about Howard. And if everything goes well, who knows, he will get the chance as the starter in 2025. Still, he’d be even happier to have Aaron Rodgers in the QB room. Because the kid who grew up watching him on TV and tape could finally see him up close… and learn right from him.
But will Aaron Rodgers wear the Steelers’ jersey?
Aaron Rodgers is getting close to making a call. With the 2025 season creeping up, all signs point to Pittsburgh. lan O’Connor, who wrote a full-on biography on Rodgers, even said if he had to claim, he’d put his money on Rodgers showing up in a Steelers uniform by June 10. Yes, that’s right in time for mandatory minicamp. That’s not just noise. Rodgers has already talked to the Steelers multiple times. And he’s made it clear he respects Mike Tomlin big-time.
According to the reports, Tomlin even told his team straight – If you need to move on, go ahead. So, the head coach has given the green light. If the front office wants him, he’s in. Right now, Pittsburgh’s got three QBs on the roster. But one spot feels like it’s just sitting there, waiting for the veteran QB.
On the other hand, Aaron Rodgers has told every team, “It’s not about the money. I’d play for 10 million dollars or even less. I’m open to anything and not attached to any outcome.” So now the clock’s ticking. And if this plays out like it’s shaping up, the Steel City might just be home to No. 8 (his Jets’ jersey no.).
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