Aaron Rodgers' Revenge: Steelers Quarterback Dominates in Thrilling Season Opener
Aaron Rodgers, 41-year-old quarterback of the Pittsburgh Steelers, made a statement in his first game of the 2025 season by dominating against his former team, the New York Jets. Rodgers, previously with the Green Bay Packers for 18 years, was traded to the Jets in 2023 but was released after a tumultuous 2024 season. He joined the Steelers as a free agent and led his new team to a 34-32 victory, throwing four touchdown passes and 244 yards.
Key Takeaways:
- Aaron Rodgers, the oldest player in the NFL, rejoined the league in 2005 after being drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the first round.
- Rodgers left the Packers in 2023 after 18 years and joined the New York Jets, but was released after a disappointing 2024 season.
- Rodgers joined the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025 as a free agent and started for the team in their first game of the season, leading them to a 34-32 victory over the Jets.
- In his first game with the Steelers, Rodgers threw four touchdown passes and 244 yards, while completing 22 of 30 passing attempts.
- Rodgers had a strong post-game interview, stating that he was "happy to remind those people that I still can" play, referencing those who doubted his abilities, and expressed no hard feelings towards his former team or organization.
- Justin Fields, the new starting quarterback for the Jets, had a less impressive performance, throwing one touchdown pass and 218 yards, completing 16 of 22 passing attempts.
Statistics:
- Aaron Rodgers' passing yards in his first game with the Steelers: 244 yards
- Rodgers' completion percentage in his first game with the Steelers: 73.3% (22/30)
- Number of touchdown passes thrown by Rodgers in his first game with the Steelers: 4
- Steeler's final score against the Jets: 34-32
- Rodgers' age: 41 years old
- Number of years Rodgers spent with the Green Bay Packers: 18 years
Sources:
- "Aaron Rodgers: 'People in the [Jets] organization didn't think I could play anymore'" - ESPN (citation needed)