STWF Sports| PITTSBURGH, Pa. | (November 12, 2025) — The Pittsburgh Steelers are standing firm behind Aaron Rodgers, even as concerns mount over the 41-year-old quarterback’s recent struggles. Head coach Mike Tomlin, the NFL’s longest-tenured sideline leader, made it clear this week that he’s not wavering in his support for the four-time MVP — nor is he entertaining outside noise about his veteran signal-caller’s future.
The decision comes after Pittsburgh’s offense sputtered in a 25–10 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, a defeat that reignited debate about whether the Steelers’ bold offseason move to bring in Rodgers has already run its course.
Rodgers’ Rocky Run in Pittsburgh
Rodgers’ arrival in the Steel City was one of the biggest storylines of the 2025 offseason. After stints with the Green Bay Packers and New York Jets, he signed a one-year, $13.6 million deal with Pittsburgh — a calculated risk for a team seeking a veteran spark to stabilize its offense and contend in a competitive AFC North.
Initially, it seemed the gamble might pay off. Rodgers opened the season in style, delivering a poised performance during the NFL’s historic first regular-season game in Dublin, Ireland. He went 18-for-22 passing for 200 yards and a touchdown, posting a 119.7 passer rating in a win over the Minnesota Vikings.
But his recent form has dipped sharply. Against the Chargers, Rodgers completed just 51.6% of his passes, threw two interceptions, and was sacked three times. His body language looked weary, and his rhythm with Pittsburgh’s young receivers appeared out of sync.
“This was not my best performance,” Rodgers admitted postgame. “I’ve got to play better than this for us to win.”
Tomlin Defends His Quarterback
In the wake of that loss, Tomlin’s patience with the media was tested. During his postgame press conference, a reporter asked how he would assess Rodgers’ performance. Tomlin fired back with a trademark stare and a quick retort.
“How would you?” he replied, flipping the question before walking off.
Two days later, Tomlin doubled down on his faith in the veteran quarterback during his Tuesday media availability.
“I have no long-term reservations about his ability to play the position and play the position at a high level for us,” Tomlin said. “I’m just not going to allow your words to be my words, that’s all.”
Tomlin, who owns a 188–111–2 career record and led Pittsburgh to a Super Bowl championship in 2008, made it clear that he’s not considering a quarterback change — at least not yet.
Steelers Still in the AFC North Mix
Despite offensive inconsistencies, the Steelers remain first in the AFC North at 5–4, narrowly ahead of the Baltimore Ravens (4–5), who have surged since the return of Lamar Jackson. The Steelers’ minus-8 point differential, however, has left many analysts questioning whether their record flatters their actual form.
Pittsburgh’s next stretch will be telling. The Steelers host the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, with veteran Joe Flacco still under center while Joe Burrow nurses a toe injury. From there, the Steelers face a grueling run of opponents — Chicago, Buffalo, Detroit, and a potentially decisive Week 18 rematch with Baltimore.
If Rodgers struggles during that stretch, Tomlin could face mounting calls to turn to a backup, or to explore offseason alternatives.
Fans Growing Restless
Steelers Nation, known for its passion and high expectations, has made its frustrations clear. Social media was ablaze following the loss to Los Angeles.
“We all know that it was hot garbage!” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter).
“He was awful tonight, start to finish,” another added. “Off target on so many throws. Held the ball way too long.”
Still, Rodgers remains unfazed, leaning on his veteran experience.
“We’ve got to play better on offense, for sure,” he said. “But this is part of the season. There’s ebbs and flows, ups and downs, and we can’t ride the wave.”
The Road Ahead
Two weeks ago, reports suggested the Steelers wanted Rodgers back for the 2026 season, depending on his health and leadership impact. Those talks have quieted — but not disappeared.
For now, Tomlin’s stance is unshakable. The Steelers’ head coach has built his legacy on loyalty, toughness, and a steady hand amid turbulence. Whether that confidence pays off or backfires may determine not only Pittsburgh’s postseason fate, but also whether Rodgers’ remarkable NFL journey still has one final chapter left to write.
