Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – The anticipation surrounding NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers and his potential signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers remains high, but recent comments from players suggest they are focusing on their current situation rather than the uncertainty. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, edge rusher Alex Highsmith expressed optimism during an interview, noting how players are rallying around Mason Rudolph, their current quarterback.
Highsmith said, “I think we just try to put our best foot forward every day. Like with who’s in the building right now. I know Mason being there, he’s done a great job. The guys are rallying around him.” He added that the team would be excited for whatever direction they go, whether Rodgers decides to join or if they continue with Rudolph, who has previously led the Steelers to success.
The pressure surrounding Rodgers’ decision will likely build as training camp approaches in roughly two months. Currently, the Steelers are patiently waiting without applying too much pressure on the star quarterback. Highsmith mentioned, “In the locker room, we’re in there working… if he does sign, we’re definitely going to be really excited to have him.” Rodgers has a history of delaying his offseason decisions, but this unique situation finds him not under contract anywhere.
Meanwhile, the Steelers are ensuring they have backup plans. If Rodgers opts not to join, they are counting on Rudolph, who helped the team in 2023 during a crucial playoff run. However, the team knows that their chances of success would take a significant hit without Rodgers in the mix.
Adding another layer of intrigue, star edge rusher T.J. Watt is also in a situation to watch. Recently, he raised eyebrows by posting a picture on social media that fans interpreted as a signal possibly related to his contract situation. Watt is in the final year of his deal and has a hefty salary of $21 million, which some feel might not reflect his value compared to other players in the league.
Highsmith, who plays alongside Watt, expressed confidence that Watt is not planning to leave Pittsburgh. “I know that he loves being here, he loves being in Pittsburgh,” Highsmith stated. The Steelers have been proactive this offseason by acquiring DK Metcalf while also trading George Pickens. As the wait continues for Rodgers, the final roster now includes him, but clarity on his situation remains elusive.
As the team navigates through an intriguing and uncertain offseason, the excitement and uncertainty continue to swirl around the black and gold. The wait drags on, but the Steelers appear focused on what they can control.
