Andrew Buller-Russ
Expectations point to Aaron Rodgers returning for another season as the Pittsburgh Steelers‘ starting quarterback. Yet, he’s still a free agent. Yet, it’s not like the Steelers have made any other moves at the QB position this offseason.
Right now, the Steelers’ depth chart consists of Mason Rudolph as QB1 and 2025 sixth-round pick Will Howard as his backup. That’s definitely not enough to win with, even for a former Super Bowl champion like head coach Mike McCarthy.
However, most expect Rodgers to return for what would be his 22nd NFL season. That includes new Steelers wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr.
Pittman recently addressed the elephant in the room, and whether he’s had a chance to connect with Rodgers since Pittman was traded to Pittsburgh on March 13.
“I’m trying to give him space because Aaron’s a guy, he likes his space, he likes to get refreshed,” Pittman said. “I didn’t want to just get signed and then blow him up and be like, ‘Hey Aaron, what’s the deal?’ I think that he wants to play. Just knowing Aaron prior to this, I just think he’s gonna try and play as long as he can.”
Pittman added that he’s “obviously hoping” to catch passes from the future Hall of Famer. If not, the Steelers could be looking at a long season after reaching the playoffs in 2025.
Pittman recorded a career-high 1,152 receiving yards in 2023. His numbers have been trending downward since, finishing last season with a respectable 784 yards and 7 touchdowns while starting 16 games. Now 28, Pittman’s best days may be behind him, but he still profiles as a solid No. 2 receiver behind D.K. Metcalf.
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