Prashant Pathak
Aaron Rodgers Says Joining Steelers Was a ‘Soul-Driven’ Decision
Aaron Rodgers has officially begun his 21st NFL season, this time in black and gold. The veteran quarterback signed a one-year, $13.65 million deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers and reported to the team’s mandatory minicamp on Tuesday.
Speaking publicly for the first time since April, the 41-year-old explained that continuing his career in Pittsburgh was not about ego or legacy—but about inner peace.
“I didn’t come back for my ego or because I needed to prove anything,” Rodgers said. “This decision came from a place much deeper. When you make choices from the soul, they tend to bring more meaning and fulfillment. Joining the Steelers felt right for my soul.”
Although other teams like the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings expressed interest, Rodgers made it clear: it was Pittsburgh or nothing.
“There were talks with other teams,” he admitted. “But the connection I felt with Coach Mike Tomlin really stood out. Once I felt that, there wasn’t another option. It was either join the Steelers or walk away from football.”
Rodgers’ decision took more than two months after his quiet visit to Pittsburgh earlier in free agency. During that time, he was dealing with personal matters, including a recent marriage. Once those situations began to improve, he felt ready to commit.
“I had a lot going on in my personal life, but things got better,” Rodgers explained. “That allowed me to fully invest myself in this opportunity. Conversations with Mike [Tomlin] and GM Omar Khan throughout the process were really encouraging.”
Rodgers emphasized that Coach Tomlin was a major reason behind his choice.
“I’ve admired Mike for a long time. There are only a handful of truly iconic franchises in the NFL, and I played for one of them for 18 years. The Steelers are another,” Rodgers said. “There’s something special about this city—it’s always felt connected to my football journey in a way.”
Rodgers arrived early Tuesday morning at the team facility and was welcomed by fans, one of whom reminded him of the Super Bowl XLV loss to Rodgers’ Packers. In his first team meeting, he made a point to say he was “all-in” for the season ahead.
During practice, Rodgers observed most team sessions and rotated in behind Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson, and rookie Will Howard. Coach Tomlin clarified that Rodgers taking a back seat was intentional, designed to give younger quarterbacks more reps in June.
“Getting guys like Will Howard as many reps as possible is more valuable right now than giving them to someone who’s been playing for two decades,” Tomlin said.
As for leadership, Rodgers said he’s not here to take over but to contribute and guide when needed.
“I just want to serve, share what I’ve learned, and connect with the team,” he said. “Everything is new—like the first day of school. I don’t know everyone’s names yet. I even get lost in the building sometimes. But I’m excited to settle in and make this place feel like home.”
