Steelers’ standout pass rusher, Alex Highsmith, keeps hearing questions about Aaron Rodgers from friends and colleagues, even though they aren’t officially teammates.
It’s a hot topic, with many wondering if Rodgers might end up in Pittsburgh.
“It feels like I’m just hanging out in the locker room at this point,” Highsmith commented. “I mentioned it on the NFL Network earlier this week,” he said.
“If he ends up signing with us, that would be exciting. We know his credentials—he’s a Hall of Fame quarterback. It’s not really a distraction, but we definitely recognize his talent and what he brings,” he added.
Rodgers’ path to joining the Steelers might be his only option in 2025, as the team faces some less-than-ideal alternatives.
Currently, they have Mason Rudolph and rookie Will Howard as their quarterbacks, but neither seems to foster a strong sense of competition.
On the other hand, bringing in Rodgers could really boost the team’s chances for division titles and playoff success.
The potential pairing makes sense, yet it remains unconfirmed.
Some had speculated that a deal would emerge soon after the NFL Draft in April.
Rodgers hasn’t offered many explanations for the delay in his decision. Recently, he mentioned to Joe Rogan that a close individual is battling cancer.
Steelers owner Art Rooney II acknowledged on Wednesday that the team is willing to wait a bit longer for Rodgers to make up his mind about his football future, although he indicated they wouldn’t wait indefinitely.
“We’re just trying to focus on who’s currently in the building,” Highsmith said regarding the quarterback situation. “Mason is working hard, and everyone knows him. He stepped up well for us last season, and fans appreciate what he did.”
Last season, the Steelers brought in quarterbacks Justin Fields and Russell Wilson but ended on a disappointing note, losing five straight games, including a wildcard matchup against the Ravens.
Pittsburgh needs solid quarterback performance to compete effectively in a division that includes the Ravens and the ever-dangerous Bengals.
Highsmith, now in his sixth season following a six-sack performance last year, feels positive about the team’s future, despite the uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position.
The Steelers will kick off the season against the Jets, providing a potential twist—facing the team that opted not to keep Rodgers.
“The atmosphere is great,” Highsmith remarked. “I see everyone improving daily. I’m genuinely excited about what we’re building.”
