Logo

Mike Tomlin Says Aaron Rodgers Gave His Word to Join Steelers Before Jets Deal Expired

Mike Tomlin has never been one to sugarcoat the truth — and this time, he didn’t hold back about how early he knew Aaron Rodgers was coming to Pittsburgh. Speaking after a recent practice, the Steelers head coach revealed that the four-time MVP gave him a personal commitment to join the Black and Gold even before his contract with the New York Jets officially ran out.

“I just got real comfortable with his ‘why,’” Tomlin said. “All he wants to do is win. And you’re right, I knew something.”

Editorial: Win or lose today, Mike Tomlin is a winner | Pittsburgh  Post-Gazette

Rodgers, 41, stunned the NFL world earlier this offseason when news broke that he was leaving New York after just two seasons. While speculation linked him to multiple contenders, Tomlin’s latest comments confirm that the decision was essentially made behind the scenes well in advance.

The veteran QB reportedly wanted a situation where the roster was ready to compete for a Super Bowl — and Pittsburgh’s defensive core, emerging offensive weapons, and stable leadership made the Steelers his top choice. The feeling was mutual. By the time negotiations were legally permitted, both sides had already built a foundation of trust.

WATCH: Can Mike Tomlin buck Aaron Rodgers' trend of getting coaches fired?  | Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Now, with Rodgers officially in the fold, Tomlin says the focus is on maximizing what could be a short but explosive championship window. “We don’t bring guys here to talk about potential,” Tomlin said. “We bring them here to win. And with Aaron, that’s exactly what he’s here to do.”

The Steelers’ move has drawn a mix of excitement and skepticism from fans. Supporters see Rodgers as the missing piece, while critics question his age and durability. Either way, the partnership between one of the league’s most respected coaches and one of its most decorated quarterbacks is set to be one of the biggest storylines of the 2025 season.

Comments (0)

Loading comments...

Eagles Legend Wants to Withdraw from Eagles Hall of Fame If Kevin Patullo Isn't Fired
Can you believe it? A living legend of the Philadelphia Eagles, LeSean McCoy, is "rebelling" and threatening to withdraw from the Eagles Hall of Fame – the place that honors his great contributions! The reason? All because of offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo! What's happening with this legendary team? Read now for the hottest NFL "drama"! On his Speakeasy show, McCoy "dropped a bomb" with a shocking statement: “Take me off. Nobody has ever asked. I’m going to say ‘Mr. Lurie, it’s either me or Kevin’. If Kevin is not fired, put 25 back out there on the street.” (Translation: "Remove me. No one has ever asked. I'm going to say 'Mr. Lurie, it's either me or Kevin'. If Kevin isn't fired, put number 25 back on the street.") Number 25 – McCoy's legendary jersey number – could be "kicked out" of the Hall of Fame if Patullo remains in position? This isn't a joke, but a direct challenge to team owner Jeffrey Lurie! This "extreme" demand stems from extreme disappointment with the disastrous performance of the Eagles' offense under Patullo. The team that once "soared high" is now "free-falling" with silly mistakes, and McCoy isn't the only one "furious." Even Josh Reynolds "cursed" Patullo: “Kevin Patullo should never see the light of day again for the crimes he’s committed…” (Translation: "Kevin Patullo should never see the light of day again for the crimes he’s committed...") Is Patullo the "culprit" causing the Eagles to "sink"? Look at the "tragedy" of quarterback Jalen Hurts: In the most recent Monday Night Football game, he threw three interceptions – one of which was blamed on AJ Brown! Comparing this year's offensive stats to last year? Worlds apart! The problem isn't just the weak offensive line, but also the play-caller – Patullo is "miserably compared" to Kellen Moore, who once elevated the offense to new heights. The article points out: The Eagles are repeating a "historical curse" – the offense always "collapses" after losing a good coordinator, like in previous Super Bowl runs. Nick Sirianni is heavily criticized for the decision to hire Patullo: "A fatal mistake"! 👀 Eagles legend LeSean McCoy says if #Eagles do not fire OC Kevin Patullo he wants out of Hall of Fame “Take me off. Nobody has ever asked. I’m going to say ‘Mr. Lurie, it’s either me or Kevin’. If Kevin is not fired, put 25 back out there on the street”📸 @speakeasytlkshw pic.twitter.com/DcOkLiQejA — Jeff Skversky (@JeffSkversky) December 10, 2025 And the "darkest" data: In shotgun formation (51 plays), the Eagles only achieved 4.2 yards/play, 2.2 yards/rush, 5.2 yards/pass, with 4 "stupid" interceptions. But under center (15 plays)? Explosive with 10.2 yards/play, 8.8 yards/rush, 16.0 yards/pass, and 0 interceptions! Clearly, the offense performs "miraculously" better when balanced – so why is Patullo still "stubbornly persisting" with the outdated play style? Eagles fans are "boiling with rage": Will the team listen to McCoy and "deal with" Patullo to save the season? This drama is "exploding" on social media! McCoy – with his illustrious career at the Eagles – is he really withdrawing from the Hall of Fame? Or is this a "ploy" to push for change? Who will Jeffrey Lurie choose: The legend or the "culprit"? Don't miss out – follow now to see the "shocking" outcome of the Eagles' internal war! What do you think, comment below!