Aaron Rodgers Proves He’s Still An Elite QB With Steelers’ Dramatic Win Over Jets

While Aaron Rodgers proved he is still an elite quarterback in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ dramatic 34-32 win over the Jets, the run defense remains a glaring liability.

Rodgers completed 22 of 30 passes for 224 yards, starting off strong with a touchdown during the Steelers’ opening drive. He added three more touchdown passes and engineered two fourth-quarter drives that set up placekicker Chris Boswell’s 60-yard field goal in the final 1:03 of the game.

At 41, Rodgers became the first player to throw four touchdown passes in a game against a former team since Ryan Fitzpatrick in 2010. After an injury-shortened season, the victory gave Rodgers redemption against the New York Jets.

“There were probably people in the organization that didn’t think I could play anymore,” Rodgers said after the game. “So, it was nice to remind those people I still can.”

Rodgers’ gameplay accuracy and attitude on the field silenced any doubts about his health and age. Head coach Mike Tomlin credited Rodgers for his indifferent composure despite the MetLife Stadium crowd giving him a somewhat hostile welcome.

“He doesn’t care,” Tomlin said. “It was Week 1. It was a lot to be excited about. We got the victory, it’s on to the next one.”

Before the game, Rodgers was seen reunited with a former Jets equipment staffer, Karan Patel, with whom he would consistently play passes during his injury recovery in 2023. The moment was a testament to Rodgers’ complex tenure with the Jets.

The game also highlighted concerns with the offense, echoing previous analyst warnings. The offensive line allowed too much pressure and four sacks. The rushing game remains overall underdeveloped, posing a threat later in the season, even if Rodgers still excels in critical moments.

Rodgers’s almost seamless transition into the Pittsburgh system gives hope for the team’s season-long performance.

The Steelers will return home on Sept. 14 to face the Seattle Seahawks. The New York Jets will be looking to regroup as they face the Buffalo Bills in Week 2.