Aaron Rodgers has signed a one-year, $13.65 million contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers, with $10 million guaranteed and potential earnings up to $19.5 million through incentives. This move positions Rodgers as the starting quarterback, expected to significantly enhance the Steelers' passing game, which averaged only 192.0 passing yards per game in 2024, ranking 27th in the NFL.
Rodgers' presence is projected to elevate the fantasy value of Pat Freiermuth, who is expected to maintain around 60 receptions as a key target. DK Metcalf emerges as the top receiving option, likely benefiting from Rodgers' veteran leadership and precision.
In terms of career milestones, Rodgers is on track to surpass Philip Rivers (63,440 yards) and Ben Roethlisberger (64,088 yards) in career passing yards, and potentially Brett Favre (508) and Peyton Manning (539) in passing touchdowns during the 2025 season.
For fantasy managers, Rodgers' signing makes him a viable late-round target in redraft leagues, especially given the Steelers' favorable matchups, including a high-profile Week 1 game against his former team, the New York Jets, and a Week 8 showdown with the Green Bay Packers on "Sunday Night Football."
Additionally, Kaleb Johnson is anticipated to play a significant role in the Steelers' backfield, potentially impacting the running game dynamics and offering a sleeper value in fantasy drafts.