Pittsburgh Steelers Minicamp: Aaron Rodgers Returns, T.J. Watt Holds Out Over Contract

By Jason Bolton June 18, 2025 09:53

The 2025 NFL offseason is heating up in Pittsburgh as the Steelers wrapped up their mandatory minicamp with plenty of drama and anticipation. The biggest headline was the much-anticipated return of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who officially took the field for the first time as a Steeler. Meanwhile, superstar linebacker T.J. Watt remained absent from the sessions amid ongoing contract extension talks, fueling speculation about his future with the franchise.

Aaron Rodgers “All In” as Steelers Begin New Chapter

After a lengthy offseason and a high-profile signing, Aaron Rodgers finally joined the Steelers for minicamp, signaling his commitment to the team’s quest for a playoff resurgence. Rodgers, 41, signed a one-year deal reportedly worth $13.65 million with $10 million guaranteed, bringing veteran leadership to a franchise that has struggled to find consistent quarterback play since Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement.

Starting center Zach Frazier praised Rodgers’ presence and message to the team. “He just said he’s all in, he’s ready to get to work. That was the main message: he’s all and ready to go from now on,” Frazier said. The young center expressed optimism about the offense’s potential with Rodgers at the helm: “Sky’s the limit. The goal is to put up a lot of points every game. That’s what we’re here to do.”

Rodgers, coming off a 2024 season with the New York Jets where he threw for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, enters Pittsburgh two years removed from an Achilles injury. While his recent performances showed flashes of brilliance, questions remain about his health and how quickly he can adapt to offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s system. Still, former Steelers wide receiver Allen Robinson expressed confidence, stating, “Aaron Rodgers going to Pittsburgh is an excellent match. He can bring his commanding presence to the field and inspire everyone around him. Coach Tomlin will allow him complete freedom to do so.”

T.J. Watt’s Holdout Casts Shadow Over Minicamp

While Rodgers’ arrival brought excitement, the absence of T.J. Watt loomed large. The star linebacker and three-time Defensive Player of the Year has been holding out of team activities amid stalled contract extension negotiations. Watt’s current deal expires after the 2025 season, and the Steelers have yet to reach an agreement on a long-term extension.

Watt’s holdout is a significant concern for Pittsburgh’s defense, which relies heavily on his pass-rushing prowess. Analysts note that without Watt’s presence, the Steelers’ defense loses its edge, and the team’s overall championship aspirations take a hit. The holdout also raises questions about the franchise’s ability to retain its core stars amid salary cap pressures.

Minicamp Takeaways and Looking Ahead

The minicamp concluded with mixed feelings. Rodgers’ participation and leadership were clear positives, giving the offense a veteran voice and a potential spark. Meanwhile, the ongoing Watt saga remains unresolved, with fans and analysts watching closely for any developments.

NBC’s Tony Dungy described the Rodgers-Steelers pairing as “a big gamble, and it may pay off huge,” highlighting the high-risk, high-reward nature of the move. The Steelers, competing in a tough AFC North alongside the Bengals, Ravens, and Browns, need both Rodgers and Watt firing on all cylinders to contend.

As training camp approaches in late July, all eyes will be on Pittsburgh to see if Rodgers can quickly gel with his new teammates and whether Watt’s contract situation can be resolved. The Steelers’ 2025 season could hinge on these pivotal developments.