On June 25, 2025, Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers announced his final season and confirmed a T.J. Watt extension. Get the details on his 'last dance' in Pittsburgh.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
In a single, stunning appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, new Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers defined the team's entire 2025 season. The 41-year-old officially announced this will be his final year in the NFL, framing the upcoming campaign as a Super Bowl-or-bust 'last dance.' As if that wasn't enough, he also confirmed the news every Steelers fan has been waiting for: a contract extension for superstar linebacker T.J. Watt is imminent.
'Once we get our Hall of Fame outside rush backer signed (TJ Watt), you’re talking about another guy who’s a leader. Not just by example, but by, you know, with his words.'
The speculation is over. Aaron Rodgers is treating his one-year deal in Pittsburgh as his swan song. Citing the chance to play for Mike Tomlin and chase another ring, Rodgers made it clear he postponed retirement for this specific opportunity. His announcement injects a thrilling sense of urgency into the season. Every snap, every game now carries the weight of a final shot at glory for one of the greatest to ever play the position. Rodgers also made a point to praise the established leadership, calling veteran Cam Heyward a 'Pittsburgh captain,' signaling his intent to integrate with, not dominate, the existing locker room culture.
While his own future is now set for one last run, Rodgers made waves by confirming the long-term future of the defense's heart and soul. He casually revealed that a T.J. Watt extension is in the works, a move that will keep the perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate in black and gold for the foreseeable future. This isn't just a smart financial move; it's a foundational one. It ensures the defense, which also features a motivated Patrick Queen coming off a 129-tackle Pro Bowl season, remains elite. Queen himself has expressed dissatisfaction with last year's finish, vowing to elevate his game, providing the perfect blend of veteran stability and hungry ambition on that side of the ball.
The front office is clearly matching the team's all-in mentality. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the Steelers kicked the tires on a blockbuster trade for Dolphins' All-Pro corner Jalen Ramsey. While a deal is deemed 'unlikely,' it shows GM Omar Khan is exploring every avenue to upgrade the roster. However, the team was also hit with a dose of harsh reality this week. The tight end room took a major blow with Donald Parham Jr. being placed on season-ending IR after tearing his Achilles. Compounding the issue, the secondary lost a promising rookie as defensive back Ryan Watts was released and is expected to medically retire after a major neck injury. These losses create significant depth concerns heading into camp.
With offseason practices now officially concluded, the focus shifts from acquisitions and announcements to on-field development. Coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan have stressed the need for younger players to acclimate quickly, a point made more critical by the recent injuries. The high-profile moves for veterans like Rodgers grab the headlines, but the team's ultimate success will depend on internal growth. The foundation is being laid, the leaders are in place, and the mission is clear.
The narrative for the 2025 season is set. It's Aaron Rodgers' final shot, T.J. Watt is about to be paid, and the team is navigating both ambitious moves and unfortunate setbacks. As the team breaks until training camp, the question on everyone's mind is clear: Can this blend of legendary talent, established leaders, and developing youth come together for one magical run to the Super Bowl?
