How ESPN Analyst Graded Aaron Rodgers Signing For Steelers

The wait is finally over. After an offseason full of speculation, Aaron Rodgers reportedly joined the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Rodgers made his highly anticipated decision on Thursday, officially signing a one-year deal with Pittsburgh. The 41-year-old quarterback arrives just in time for the start of mandatory minicamp next week.

Following their fourth first-round playoff exit in five years, the Steelers are gambling on the four-time MVP replacing Russell Wilson and Justin Fields under center. Fans and pundits will have mixed emotions about the polarizing veteran running the offense in 2025.

Seth Walder processed some diverging viewpoints when evaluating the move. The ESPN analyst assigned the Steelers a “B” grade before learning the contract’s financial details. Despite the solid mark, Walder has his reservations about Pittsburgh potentially following in the New York Jets’ footsteps.

“I can’t believe we’re back here, watching another NFL franchise desperate for an answer at quarterback kowtow to a 41-year-old who hasn’t played good ball since 2021,” Walder wrote. “Twelve months from now we will look up and most likely be talking about the Steelers’ lost season with Rodgers that ended in disappointment.”

However, Walder called Rodgers a “rational choice” for Pittsburgh. With nobody better available, he understands why the Steelers felt compelled to roll the dice.

“The median outcome is not the point,” Walder added. “This move makes some sense simply because of the slim amount of upside that Rodgers still possesses and the options that were on the table.”

Walder reasoned that Rodgers gives the Steelers a higher ceiling than Wilson, who signed with the New York Giants. While Rodgers probably couldn’t have led the Giants to contention even if he thrived, Walder acknowledged that Rodgers could steer Pittsburgh to a deep playoff push if all goes well.

As a result, Walder feels the Rodgers and Steelers link “makes uncomfortable sense” for each side. That doesn’t mean he’s confident in the future Hall of Famer riding into the sunset with his second Super Bowl.

“Don’t get me wrong: If I were the Steelers, I would not feel good about going down this path,” Walder said. “But I also look at 30-year-old (T.J.) Watt and think that if they’re going to take a swing while he’s still there, there isn’t a better alternative.”

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