Aaron Rodgers Prepares for Steelers Opener Against Former Team

PITTSBURGH — Aaron Rodgers is keeping his emotions in check ahead of his first game back at MetLife Stadium to face the New York Jets on Sunday, September 10, as the Pittsburgh Steelers’ starting quarterback.

Speaking at his weekly media availability Wednesday, Rodgers dismissed questions about the significance of returning to his former team, saying it was simply “Week 1.” He added he was focused on the upcoming game and eager to compete after a challenging stint with the Jets.

“I’d just be excited for Week 1,” Rodgers stated when asked about his emotions for the game. The veteran was released by the Jets after a disappointing two-year career marked by injuries, including a season-ending Achilles injury in his first game in 2023.

Rodgers signed with the Steelers in June on a one-year, $13.65 million contract. He praised the organization for how well he has been received, saying, “The way that I’ve been welcomed has been really, really special from top down to the fans to guys in the locker room.”

Regarding his familiarity with the Jets’ new defense, he mentioned knowing some players like Quincy and Quinnen Williams but kept details private, indicating he wouldn’t share much about his past contacts with his former team.

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin anticipated that Rodgers would handle the situation professionally, saying, “I’m sure he’s capable of compartmentalizing that,” and confirmed that the team was focused on playing the game without distractions.

Rodgers’ teammates also noted his focused demeanor. Tight end reported that Rodgers is approaching the game as any other despite the narratives surrounding his return. “He makes it seem like it’s just another game, and I think that’s cool for us,” he said.

With the first-team offense yet to take the field in a competitive game, concerns of a lack of preparation linger. Tomlin, however, remains confident in the team’s practice efforts. “I see them work every day, and that daily work leads to in-stadium performance,” he declared.

Rodgers, along with his teammates, is ready to begin the new season with optimism as they gear up for a challenging matchup against his former team.