Rumors are swirling that Aaron Rodgers could become the Pittsburgh Steelers’ starting quarterback for 2025.
With Justin Fields signing a two-year deal with the New York Jets and Russell Wilson visiting both the Cleveland Browns and New York Giants this week, Pittsburgh finds itself hunting for a new signal caller.
Rodgers, who has now officially been released by the Jets after two turbulent seasons, has reportedly long been a favorite of Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin.
If the Steelers do sign Rodgers, they would acquire a 41-year-old future Hall of Fame quarterback who brings considerable baggage. He threw for nearly 4,000 yards and 28 touchdowns during a disappointing 5-12 Jets season in 2024, though context matters – he attempted the second-most passes in the league while often playing from behind.
As Pittsburgh awaits Rodgers’ decision, the team has already secured one of his former teammates.
Pittsburgh Steelers sign former New York Jets cornerback
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that the Steelers have signed former Jets cornerback Brandin Echols to bolster their secondary depth and special teams.
The #Steelers are expected to sign former #Jets CB Brandin Echols, sources say. He should provide key secondary depth and more. pic.twitter.com/t5fQIVJOcf
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 12, 2025
The Jets selected Echols in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Last season, he appeared in 16 games (making four starts), recording two interceptions, three pass breakups, and one fumble recovery while playing 38% of defensive snaps. He also contributed on special teams for 46% of plays.
Throughout his four-year stint in New York, Echols appeared in 57 games with 19 starts, amassing five interceptions, two pick-sixes, and 16 pass breakups.
Contract details remain undisclosed.
This signing follows Pittsburgh’s recent acquisition of cornerback Darius Slay on a one-year, $10 million deal after his release from the Philadelphia Eagles.
