This offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers have completely revamped their roster, making bold moves that have continuously turned heads across the league. Multiple storylines have kept people tuned in, especially with several big names being connected to the team. One of the biggest developments was the uncertainty at quarterback, as the Steelers lacked a clear starter going into the offseason. That changed with the long-anticipated signing of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, and the team has since prioritized building around him, strengthening the roster as a whole.
Rodgers has had a historic career, one that almost certainly guarantees him a future spot in the Hall of Fame. With all the success he's had, it’s no surprise he’s built a few rivalries along the way. One of those former rivals, Ndamukong Suh, recently appeared on Good Morning Football and reflected on his rivalry with Rodgers, while also sharing praise for the veteran quarterback. Suh added that he hopes both Rodgers and his friend, cornerback Darius Slay, can go out and win a Super Bowl this year.
"I have ultimate respect for Aaron Rodgers and what he's been able to do as an individual," Suh said. "I wish him the best, especially with him being on the Steelers. I hope him and my boy Slay find a way to get to the Super Bowl and hopefully win it this year."
Rodgers and Suh had one of the NFL’s more intense rivalries, especially when Suh played for the Detroit Lions and Rodgers played for the Green Bay Packers. As division rivals in the very competitive NFC North, they went head-to-head many times. Suh was known for his tough, physical style, while Rodgers stayed calm and focused under pressure. Their games were always exciting, filled with big hits and tense moments.
Slay and Rodgers were also once division rivals, as Slay and Suh were teammates on the Lions. Slay has actually shared that his history playing against Rodgers makes him even more excited to now be on the same team. He’s familiar with Rodgers’ style and has seen firsthand the kind of impactful performances he brings to big games.
After Rodgers signed with the Steelers, it was quickly confirmed, despite the rumors, that the deal was for just one year. This led many to believe it could be Rodgers’ final season, especially given that he’s 41 years old, making him the oldest active player in the NFL. While he didn’t say it outright, Rodgers strongly hinted during a recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show that this would indeed be his last year.
This offseason, the Steelers have made a strong effort to build a team capable of winning right now. With this likely being Rodgers' final season, both he and the organization are aiming to end his career on a high note, ideally with a deep playoff run. If everything goes according to plan, the Steelers could find postseason success, while still setting themselves up to draft a top-tier franchise quarterback next year, right home in Pittsburgh.
Slay is one of the key veteran additions who brings valuable experience to help develop the younger players on the roster. He’s already expressed excitement about mentoring young cornerback Joey Porter Jr., showing his commitment to contributing beyond just on-field performance. Although Slay is only signed to a one-year deal, his leadership and guidance could leave a long-lasting impact on the Steelers' future, something similar to other players around the roster.
The Steelers Have Added Pressure This Season
With all these changes, the Steelers face increased pressure to perform at a high level, especially since this is likely Rodgers’ final season. The roster has been strengthened with the goal of making this upcoming year a successful one. While the Steelers have consistently reached the postseason in recent years, they’ve often faced early exits. This season brings a new sense of hope that they can make a deeper playoff run.
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