Terry Bradshaw, the legendary Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback and Pro Football Hall of Famer, sparked controversy in late May by criticizing his former team’s decision to pursue 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers. Speaking on 103.7 The Buzz in Little Rock, Arkansas, Bradshaw dismissed the move as a “joke,” questioning the wisdom of signing Rodgers for just one year and suggesting the quarterback should remain in California.
The Steelers signed Rodgers to a one-year deal before minicamp last month. Rodgers was present at Steelers training camp in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, alongside other NFL veterans, including multiple MVPs and Super Bowl champions. Despite the criticism from Bradshaw and others, Rodgers responded diplomatically, expressing respect for Bradshaw and other NFL legends like Brett Favre and Tom Brady. He noted his long-standing relationship with Bradshaw, whom he considers a legend, and acknowledged the legacy he builds upon.
Rodgers, who spent 18 seasons with the Green Bay Packers after being drafted 24th overall in 2005, made 10 Pro Bowls before a brief stint with the New York Jets, where an Achilles injury cut his 2023 season short. Though he didn’t reach the playoffs with the Jets, Rodgers aims to return to postseason success with the Steelers, a team that hasn’t won a playoff game since 2016. Despite pondering retirement this offseason, Rodgers chose to continue playing and expressed enthusiasm about joining Pittsburgh.
On a personal note, Rodgers shared that he married this offseason, describing his wife—whose name hasn’t been publicly revealed—as his unwavering support. He said that having her by his side has brought him newfound stability and motivation, making him feel capable of anything.
Fan Take: This exchange highlights the dynamic tension between NFL legends and current players, underscoring how the sport continuously evolves. Rodgers’ move to the Steelers could rejuvenate both his career and the team, promising fans exciting possibilities for the upcoming season.