Steelers' Arthur Smith shuts down big Aaron Rodgers narrative early into training camp

With Aaron Rodgers joining the Steelers, punters might consider betting on a resurgence for the team, particularly with predictions leaning towards a strong launch against the Jets in Week 1.

Even before the Pittsburgh Steelers officially signed future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers to be their starting quarterback for the 2025 season, analysts and reporters openly suggested that Rodgers wasn't the best fit for a unit led by offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.

On Tuesday, Smith attempted to pour cold water over such takes. "With Aaron, you’re talking about a guy with 20-plus years," Smith said about Rodgers' experience as an NFL QB1, as shared by Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "It’s cool because we both have been in a lot of offenses. He’s been the perfect fit for what we want to do, with how we package things, without giving away too much info."

ESPN stats show that Rodgers ended the 2024 season, which he spent with the New York Jets, responsible for the second-most pass attempts (584) in the league. Meanwhile, Smith is expected to rely heavily on running backs Jaylen Warren, Kenneth Gainwell and rookie Kaleb Johnson during the upcoming campaign.

Rodgers and Smith reportedly kept in touch during the Steelers' summer break as they worked to grow more comfortable with each other ahead of training camp. That process admittedly remains a work in progress in the closing days of July. "It’s all about timing and spacing and trust," Smith added. "That’s what we’re building here in a short amount of time. That’s why the urgency in camp, understanding where we can take this thing and be ready Week 1."

The Steelers open the regular season with a matchup at none other than the Jets on Sept. 7. Current Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Davante Adams most recently played alongside Rodgers with the Jets last season. Adams is among those who are convinced the 41-year-old signal-caller still has plenty left in the tank, physically, even though some experts believe Rodgers is now well past his prime.

Earlier in the week, Dulac referred to Rodgers as "the greatest thrower of the football I have ever seen." Smith is also excited about the arm talent he has thus far seen from Rodgers this summer. "He still throws the ball, for his age, it’s unbelievable his release and how he generates power," Smith said of Rodgers. "Father Time gets us all, but you look at the last six games last season, when he’s healthy, he moves around well. That’s what has been impressive."

Time will tell if Rodgers' body can hold up through one more grueling season as he attempts to end his career "the right way." For now, he can look forward to returning to MetLife Stadium as a visiting player on the first Sunday of September.

In June, the Steelers signed Rodgers to be their starting quarterback for the 2025 season.

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