The Steelers’ decision to bring Aaron Rodgers back for the 2026 season was met with mixed reactions. Many people wondered how well the 42-year-old would play. Concerns also lingered about whether he would stay healthy. The four-time NFL MVP has shown that he’s still capable of playing good football.
Legendary quarterback Tom Brady appeared on The Herd with Colin Cowherd on Tuesday. Brady praised Rodgers’ performance this season. He said, “Aaron’s always been a very aggressive passer. If something were open downfield, he’d cut it loose. I’ve been really impressed with Aaron this year because he was a very mobile quarterback for a long time. He could move in the pocket and buy a bunch of time. He doesn’t quite have that same elusiveness, and he’s really transitioned to becoming more of a pocket passer.”
Brady continued, “He’s always been an incredible passer of the football, but now that he’s playing from the pocket, he’s totally in control. I think he’s got six interceptions this year, and five of them have been off his receivers' hands or a Hail Mary. He’s making incredible decisions. He has always made great decisions, and that’s why that team’s first place in the AFC North, and I don’t see anyone stopping them in that division, either.”
Throughout eight games this season, Rodgers has amassed 1,871 yards and 13 touchdowns. He currently has an 86.2 passer rating. The future Hall of Famer reached significant career milestones on October 11th during the Steelers’ game against the Indianapolis Colts. It was his 90th career game with at least three touchdown passes. The 42-year-old surpassed Peyton Manning on the career touchdown pass list, which includes the postseason. He now ranks third in NFL history. Rodgers surpassed Steelers legend Ben Roethlisberger on the all-time quarterback wins list, moving into fifth place.
The Steelers are coming off a 27-6 victory over the Cleveland Browns in Week Eight. They lead their division with a 6-2 record. The Steelers have a bye for Week Nine. They play the Cincinnati Bengals on November 15th. If Rodgers keeps playing at this level and stays healthy, he could lead Pittsburgh to their first playoff win in nearly a decade.
