'Aura around him is gone': Aaron Rodgers slammed for acting above the game after strange workout
As Aaron Rodgers steps into his 21st NFL season, the stakes could not be higher. At 41, he joins the Pittsburgh Steelers on a one-year deal that may mark the final chapter of his storied career.
But with the franchise under intense pressure—especially head coach Mike Tomlin amid a six-game playoff skid—the spotlight on Rodgers has never been brighter. The four-time MVP is expected to revive the Steelers' postseason hopes and lead one last run at a championship.
Joe Thomas doubts Aaron Rodgers' magic still exists
Despite Rodgers' decorated resume, not everyone believes he's the answer Pittsburgh needs. Pro Football Hall of Famer Joe Thomas has openly questioned whether Rodgers can still command a locker room or play at a Super Bowl level, especially after a disappointing stint with the Jets marred by an Achilles tear and a five-win season in 2024.
"There's not many quarterbacks that have had a bad year coming off injury, as they get really old, and their third or fourth teams, that have found really great success," Thomas told Andrew Siciliano on The Rich Eisen Show.
Joe Thomas Talks Browns' QBs, Rodgers & Steelers, Colts, More | Full Interview | The Rich Eisen Show
Having spent his entire 11-year career with the Browns, Thomas also admitted to rooting against the Steelers due to his loyalty to Cleveland. Yet his skepticism runs deeper than rivalry. Thomas believes Rodgers no longer carries the same influence he once did.
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"I think that aura around him is kinda gone at this point," Thomas noted. "He really needs to humble himself a little bit… until he does that, I think they're going to be a little lukewarm on his presence."
Steelers locker room believes Rodgers is all-in
While Thomas voices doubt, Steelers veteran Cameron Heyward sees a different side of the quarterback. He claims Rodgers has fully committed to the team, even earning the respect of teammates with his leadership and offseason engagement.
This includes private workouts with his new receiving group—featuring D.K. Metcalf, Scotty Miller, and Pat Freiermuth—and a viral training video where Rodgers was seen grinding alongside NBA stars in California.
Though Rodgers hasn't had a winning season since 2021, his personal stats haven't fallen off a cliff. Last year, he threw 28 touchdowns at a 63% completion rate—just shy of his career average—though his 11 interceptions raised concerns.
Still, Thomas remains intrigued, if not convinced: "So it will be really interesting to see what he does, and how he changes in little ways... and be the guy that can lead them to a Super Bowl."
With a final shot at glory and his legacy hanging in the balance, Aaron Rodgers' farewell tour could either cement his greatness—or confirm his decline.
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FAQs
1. Why did Aaron Rodgers join the Pittsburgh Steelers for the 2025 NFL season?
Rodgers signed a one-year deal with the Steelers to make a final push for a Super Bowl in what may be his last NFL season.
2. What concerns did Joe Thomas raise about Aaron Rodgers' impact in Pittsburgh?
Thomas questioned Rodgers' ability to lead and inspire the locker room, citing his age, recent injuries, and declining influence.
3. How has Aaron Rodgers prepared for the upcoming season with the Steelers?
Rodgers has been training rigorously with new teammates like D.K. Metcalf and appeared in offseason workouts to build chemistry.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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