Background on Aaron Rodgers and His Relevance
At 42 years old, Aaron Rodgers is experiencing what could be his final games in the NFL. The Steelers signed him, hoping to extend their playoff chances or potentially usher Rodgers towards the end of his time with the team. After a tumultuous stint with the New York Jets, where an injury sidelined him for the 2023 season, Rodgers faced setbacks in 2024 due to various injuries. The Aquiles tendon rupture and calf strain kept him from performing at his best. In 2023, Rodgers’ average depth of target was a career-low 6.8 yards, placing him at 31st in the league.
Rodgers’ Performance with the Steelers
Although Rodgers has seen more playing time with the Steelers, his statistics have not been flawless. He has been sacked more times (596, before the upcoming game against the Browns) than any other player in NFL history. This Sunday, Rodgers’ and the Steelers’ relevance hangs in the balance.
Steelers’ Recent Defeat and Playoff Implications
The Steelers’ 13-6 loss to the Browns in Week 17 prevented them from securing their first division title since 2020. Now, they prepare for a do-or-die battle against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18 for the AFC North title.
Analysis of Steelers’ Performance Against Browns
The Steelers struggled to capitalize on the Browns’ weaknesses. They only managed two field goals in the first three quarters, and Trai Turner’s interceptions yielded no points. Against Cleveland’s top-ranked aerial defense, Rodgers managed only 168 passing yards, with 58 coming in the final series. The Browns dominated the Steelers’ ground game, and Rodgers completed 21 of 39 passes for 168 yards without any touchdowns or interceptions.
Rodgers’ Contract and Playoff Incentives
Rodgers signed a one-year, $13.65 million contract with the Steelers. If the Steelers advance to the playoffs, Rodgers will receive a $500,000 bonus and unlock additional contract bonuses.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Aaron Rodgers and why is he relevant? Aaron Rodgers, at 42 years old, is experiencing what could be his final NFL games. The Steelers signed him to potentially extend their playoff chances or prepare for his departure. Rodgers has faced injury setbacks in recent years but remains a significant figure in the league.
- What are Rodgers’ statistics with the Steelers? Despite more playing time, Rodgers has not posted flawless statistics. He’s been sacked 596 times, the most in NFL history, and his average depth of target was a career-low 6.8 yards in 2023.
- Why is the Steelers’ Week 17 loss to the Browns significant? The Steelers’ 13-6 defeat prevented them from securing their first division title since 2020. Now, they face the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18 for an AFC North playoff spot.
- What were the Steelers’ struggles against the Browns? The Steelers failed to capitalize on the Browns’ weaknesses, managing only two field goals in the first three quarters. Trai Turner’s interceptions resulted in zero points, and Rodgers’ 168 passing yards without a touchdown or interception highlighted their struggles against Cleveland’s top-ranked aerial defense.
- What are the implications of Rodgers’ contract with the Steelers? Rodgers signed a one-year, $13.65 million contract with the Steelers. If they make the playoffs, he’ll receive a $500,000 bonus and unlock additional contract bonuses.
