Aaron Rodgers re-signs: How he fits the Steelers’ offense

In a highly anticipated move during the 2026 NFL offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers have signed veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers to a one-year contract, making him their starting quarterback for the upcoming season. The deal is worth between $22 million and $23 million in base salary, with potential incentives bringing it up to $25 million, a notable increase from his previous one-year contract of $13.65 million.

Reports leading up to this decision suggested that Rodgers was contemplating one final season, coinciding with the Steelers hiring his former head coach Mike McCarthy to replace Mike Tomlin. While the pairing seemed promising, questions arise regarding the Steelers’ choice to rely on the 42-year-old Rodgers, especially considering last year’s offensive performance.

An analysis of the Steelers’ 2025 offense reveals a team that was average at best, ranking 17th in yards per play and 16th in points per drive. Advanced metrics placed them 21st in success rate and 16th in expected points added per play. This aligns with their record of hovering around .500, often relying on a strong defense to secure victories.

Interestingly, the Steelers’ passing game was less effective than their running game, which thrived behind a solid offensive line and backfield. Despite having Rodgers at the helm, the team struggled in the air, with their passing attack ranking poorly compared to their running game.

Rodgers’ performance in 2025 was hindered by his declining mobility and inability to withstand pressure, leading to a quick release of the ball—he had the fastest time to throw among quarterbacks at 2.71 seconds. His passing attempts often failed to travel beyond the line of scrimmage, with a significant portion of his throws being short, quick passes. This limitation restricted the offense’s explosiveness and required a robust supporting cast to function effectively.

Looking ahead to 2026, McCarthy must adapt his offensive strategy to accommodate Rodgers’ current abilities. This includes emphasizing quick throws that can generate yards after the catch, similar to the approaches used in Kyle Shanahan’s offenses. The Steelers will need to balance their passing and running games to alleviate pressure on Rodgers and create opportunities for deeper routes.

The Steelers’ success will also depend on the development of new receivers, such as Michael Pittman Jr. and Germie Bernard, who must quickly acclimate to Rodgers’ expectations. While the offense may not lead the league in statistics, it can still be effective if it operates methodically and avoids turnovers.

Despite the potential for improvement, the Steelers face challenges in a competitive division and conference. Rodgers’ recent performance raises concerns about his ability to compete with younger quarterbacks. Alternatives like Kyler Murray, who signed for a much lower salary, could have provided a more promising future for the Steelers.

Ultimately, while the Steelers have a chance to improve in 2026, skepticism remains about their prospects with Rodgers at the helm. The team’s success will hinge on their ability to adapt and evolve in a league that continues to prioritize dynamic, younger quarterbacks.Tomado de https://www.espn.com/