After a disastrous stint in New York, Aaron Rodgers is desperate to get his career back on the rails with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Mike Tomlin has had 18 straight campaigns without a losing record, and with seven teams making the postseason in each conference, there's a serious chance Rodgers could be back to compete for a Lombardi trophy.
But at 41 years old, still hampered by his torn Achilles in 2023, can Rodgers compete at the level needed even to keep Tomlin's streak alive, let alone compete for a title?
During a recent media appearance, the four-time MVP discussed his future in the league, suggesting there's some extra weight riding on this upcoming season.
While on the "Pat McAfee Show," Rodgers offered some clarity about his future in the NFL:
"Yeah, I'm pretty sure this is my last season, and that's why we did just a one-year deal," Rodgers said. "Steelers didn't need to put any extra years on it or anything. This was really about finishing with a lot of fun, love, and peace for the career I've had. I've played 20 freaking years—it's been a long run."
With Rodgers, it's impossible to take everything at face value, but he was candid in his monologue and seemed genuine about his desire to hang it up.
That creates an uncomfortable reality that Pittsburgh would again need a new quarterback, but perhaps the solution is in-house. The franchise drafted Ohio State Buckeyes football product Will Howard in the sixth round, coming off the heels of hoisting a national championship in Columbus.
Howard has some desirable physical traits and has plenty of time to learn under Rodger's tutelage before having a chance to rise up the depth chart.
Given his age and injury history, Rodgers is far from a guarantee to finish the season upright. Rather than try the Mason Rudolph experiment for the 1000th time, perhaps Pittsburgh would give the rookie a chance to be at the controls.
Howard has to stay ready, as his chances of being a starter in this league, possibly this coming season, just dramatically increased.