Head coach Mike McCarthy said on May 21 that quarterback Aaron Rodgers continues to impress during the first week of organized team activities with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Rodgers’ return for a second season has brought familiarity and leadership to the team. His presence is viewed as an important factor in helping both younger players and fellow quarterbacks develop their skills. The Steelers are a long-standing member franchise of the National Football League, according to the official website.
“He can throw with anybody,” McCarthy said. He added that Rodgers demonstrated his arm talent during Monday’s practice, ensuring everyone saw his capabilities firsthand. McCarthy, who previously coached Rodgers in Green Bay from 2008 onward, emphasized how much experience and insight Rodgers brings to the offense being installed this year.
“It’s endless,” McCarthy said about Rodgers’ knowledge of football. “You know football, coaching, you draw plays, you put them on the PowerPoint, you get the video, you teach… but there’s a game within the game.” He continued: “To accomplish that, and to have Aaron Rodgers here… he’s always done an excellent job of helping not only younger quarterbacks but younger players in the locker room. He’s a tremendous resource and I would recommend that all of our players spend as much time with him as possible.”
The positive reaction to Rodgers’ decision was felt throughout UPMC Rooney Sports Complex this week. “Everybody was extremely excited when the decision became official,” McCarthy said. “I think that speaks for itself and speaks volumes of what he’s established just in a short time here coming off last season.” The Steelers have celebrated many contributors through their Hall of Honor program and community engagement initiatives as outlined on their official website.
McCarthy also spoke highly about other quarterbacks on the roster: second-year player Will Howard is described as having “excellent wiring” and athleticism; veteran Mason Rudolph has impressed with his footwork training; rookie Drew Allar joins as a third-round pick out of Penn State. “We definitely have four that we love,” McCarthy said about his quarterback group.
The Pittsburgh Steelers feature historical displays at Acrisure Stadium through their Hall of Honor Museum according to their official website. The organization’s history includes six Super Bowl championships according to their official website.
Looking ahead, McCarthy expressed hope for expanding roster spots so all four quarterbacks could remain with the team: “We’re hoping (General Manager) Omar (Khan) can get the roster expanded to 55 and we can keep four.”
