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The Pittsburgh Steelers know exactly what it’s like to go up against a prime Aaron Rodgers. Of course, the biggest example of that came when the Steelers faced the Green Bay Packers in Super Bowl XLV. In that 31-25 loss to the Mike McCarthy and Rodgers-led Packers, Rodgers carved up the Steelers’ secondary, completing 24 of his 39 pass attempts for 304 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions. It was a performance that showcased why he was one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the NFL at his peak.
Throughout his career, Rodgers has always possessed underrated athletic ability. His ability to scramble, evade pressure, extend plays outside the pocket, and create something out of nothing has been a major part of his success.
Now entering the 2026 season at 42 years old, with his 43rd birthday coming during the year, many believe Rodgers’ age began to show, particularly with his mobility late in the 2025 season with Pittsburgh. There were certainly moments where Rodgers didn’t have the same explosiveness he once did, but there were also flashes that surprised people, including his touchdown run against the Baltimore Ravens.
Still, it’s fair to assume Rodgers will be more limited physically entering 2026. That’s why there is so much pressure on the Steelers’ young and promising offensive line to take another step forward. If Pittsburgh wants any chance at making a serious playoff run during what could be Rodgers’ final season, keeping him protected and giving him time in the pocket will be critical.
However, Steelers insider Mark Kaboly believes the narrative surrounding Rodgers’ mobility may be exaggerated. While speaking on 93.7 The Fan on Monday, Kaboly pushed back on the idea that Rodgers’ legs are completely gone.
"The only thing is, can the quarterback stay upright?" Kaboly said. "I don’t buy the idea that he’s so slow that he’s just a slug in the pocket. I think we saw him move around plenty last year to dispel that."
During the 2025 season, Rodgers clearly showed that his arm talent is still there. The biggest concern came when he faced immense pressure, such as what transpired in the Steelers’ 30-6 home playoff loss against the Houston Texans and their elite pass rush.
Still, Kaboly believes the concerns surrounding Rodgers’ mobility are being overstated.
"I don’t know, because that arm talent isn’t going anywhere," Kaboly said. "I don’t think he falls off a cliff."
During the regular season, he finished with 3,322 passing yards (15th in the NFL), 24 touchdown passes (13th), and just seven interceptions. While his overall production wasn’t at the level of his MVP seasons, he showed that he can still make the throws necessary to lead an offense.
Steelers Do Not Need 4-Time MVP Aaron Rodgers
Rodgers has made it very clear that the 2026 season will be his final year in the NFL. While it’s still Rodgers and you can never truly know what the future holds, he has stated that this will be his last season.
That announcement should help galvanize the Steelers’ roster as they look to make a run and try to win for Rodgers on his way out of a legendary NFL career that includes four league MVP awards.
The Steelers don’t need Rodgers to be the same athlete he was in his prime, and they don’t need him to play at an MVP level anymore. They simply need him to stay upright, make smart decisions, and deliver in the biggest moments when this offense needs him most.
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