While there are some critics of the Steelers’ signing of Aaron Rodgers, one NFL coaching legend has come to his defense, believing the quarterback should get control over the team’s offense.
On Tuesday’s edition of “The Dan Patrick Show,” former Steelers head coach Bill Cowher said he would give Rodgers total autonomy with Pittsburgh’s offense.
“Absolutely,” Cowher said on the program. “I don’t think there’s any question about it. And I think Aaron’s at a point where he knows you don’t want him to be throwing the ball 40 times a game at this point.”
Cowher said he understands that Rodgers, after he signed a one-year, $13.65 million contract with the Steelers, should not be throwing the ball frequently during games due to his age (41) and that keeping him ready for the postseason is the priority.
“You want Aaron Rodgers to be healthy going into the playoffs, and hopefully you get to the playoffs,” Cowher said. “I think in the meantime, you create a balance on your football team that you’re not just relying on his arm throughout the course of four quarters.
Rodgers is coming off two years in New York, one where he missed all but four plays in 2023 after an Achilles tear and an underwhelming 5-12 season in 2024 after sky-high expectations.
His 3,897 passing yards were the third-lowest he recorded in a season in which he played double-digit games.
His 48 QBR ranked 25th out of 32 quarterbacks.
When the new regime of head coach Aaron Glenn and GM Darren Mougey arrived in New York, it was clear that the team was ready to head in a new direction.
Even with his 2024 stats, Cowher believes that Rodgers is the one who can bring home a playoff win for the first time in eight years.
“There is a degree of urgency in that building, no question about it” Cowher said. “I think the biggest thing right now is going out there and try to bring this whole thing together.”