The Pittsburgh Steelers got exactly what they hoped for in Aaron Rodgers’ debut.
The veteran quarterback threw four touchdown passes and guided his new team to a 34-32 victory over the New York Jets on Sunday.
The win carried extra meaning considering the Jets had brought Rodgers from California last spring only to decide they didn’t want him.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Rodgers didn’t hide his feelings about facing his former suitors.
“I was happy to beat everybody associated with the Jets,” Rodgers said with a straight face.
#Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers on beating #Jets HC Aaron Glenn: “I was happy to beat everybody associated with the Jets.”
(via @snyjets)
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) September 7, 2025
Rodgers completed the day with 244 passing yards and zero turnovers. He found the end zone through connections with Ben Skowronek, Jonnu Smith, Jalen Warren, and Calvin Austin III.
Two of those scores came within a 50-second stretch during the second half that helped swing momentum Pittsburgh’s way.
Chris Boswell capped the performance with a 60-yard field goal that gave the Steelers the win with just over a minute remaining.
The 41-year-old quarterback’s offseason became one of the league’s biggest storylines.
Speculation about his destination stretched from spring into early June before he ultimately chose Pittsburgh.
Many questioned whether Rodgers could mesh with Mike Tomlin and offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.
One game doesn’t provide all the answers, but early signs point toward a smooth transition. The chemistry between Rodgers and his new receivers looked natural, while his decision-making remained sharp throughout the contest.
Jets head coach Aaron Glenn watched his unit surrender four touchdown passes to the quarterback his organization passed on.
Glenn’s preferred option, Justin Fields, played well in the loss. But Rodgers simply played better.
The Steelers now have their answer at quarterback, at least for this season. Rodgers showed he still has plenty left in the tank, and Pittsburgh’s playoff hopes just got a significant boost.
