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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.

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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.

Minnesota Vikings vs Dallas Cowboys Week 15 NFL 2025: Latest Odds, Injury Report & Score Prediction
The marquee Sunday Night Football matchup in Week 15 pits the Minnesota Vikings (5-8) against the Dallas Cowboys (6-6-1) at AT&T Stadium. Kickoff is set for 8:20 PM ET on Sunday, December 14, 2025. This is a must-win game for Dallas to keep playoff hopes alive. Quick Match Info (Updated Dec 10, 2025) Date & Time: Sunday, Dec 14, 2025 – 8:20 PM ET Venue: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX (retractable roof – weather not a factor) TV (US): NBC / Peacock Current Records: Vikings 5-8 | Cowboys 6-6-1 **Head-to-Head: Cowboys lead all-time series 19-15 and have won 5 of the last 6 meetings Latest Betting Odds (Consensus – BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel) Bet Type Vikings Cowboys Notes Spread +6.5 (-110) -6.5 (-110) Line moved from -7 to -6.5 Moneyline +240 -300   Total (O/U) Over 47.5 (-110) Under 47.5 (-110) Trending toward 47   Best value bets right now: Cowboys -6.5 or Under 47.5 Key Injury Report (as of Dec 10 evening)     Team Player Position Injury Status Cowboys CeeDee Lamb WR Concussion protocol Questionable (65-70% to play, may wear guardian cap) Cowboys Tyler Guyton OT High ankle sprain Doubtful Cowboys Jadeveon Clowney EDGE Hamstring Questionable Cowboys Trevon Diggs CB Knee soreness Questionable Vikings J.J. McCarthy QB Cleared concussion protocol Will start Vikings Justin Jefferson WR Healthy 100%   → If Lamb is limited or out, Vikings +6.5 becomes very playable. Key Stats & Trends Cowboys average 29.3 PPG at home (best in NFL) Vikings average only 16.8 PPG on the road this season 7 of Dallas’ last 9 home games went OVER the total Vikings are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games as +6 or bigger underdogs Expert Score Predictions ESPN FPI: Cowboys 27 – Vikings 19 (73.2% win probability for Dallas) SportsLine 10,000 sims: Cowboys by 7.8 points USA Today: Cowboys 28–20 Bleacher Report: Cowboys 31–23 Our Final Prediction: Dallas Cowboys 30 – 20 Vikings → Cowboys cover -6.5 | Game goes slightly OVER 47.5