Pittsburgh Steelers opt out Aaron Rodgers and T.J. Watt for preseason kickoff game
Pittsburgh Steelers News: Veteran Stars Sit Out Preseason Opener as Precaution
The Pittsburgh Steelers are taking a cautious approach to the preseason, with several veteran players sitting out the opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Among those not suiting up are quarterback Aaron Rodgers and outside linebacker T.J. Watt.
Rodgers' absence is primarily due to the need to avoid injury and prepare for the regular season. With his history of injuries, including a torn Achilles in 2023, the Steelers are taking a prudent stance to ensure Rodgers' health for the upcoming season. It's unclear if Rodgers will play at all during the preseason.
Mason Rudolph steps into the role as the backup quarterback, a position he's proven capable of handling. His performance in previous games has instilled confidence in the Steelers' management and fans that the team could remain competitive with Rudolph should Rodgers be unable to play for an extended period.
The third-string quarterback position is up for grabs, with Skylar Thompson and rookie Will Howard competing for the spot. Howard's recent injury, a broken finger, will not require surgery, and he's expected to make a full recovery. Aaron Rodgers has been mentoring Howard, and Rodgers has praised the young player's ability to command the offense.
Meanwhile, defensive stalwart Cameron Heyward is entering his 15th NFL season, all with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Heyward, a seven-time Pro Bowler, has recently signed a two-year, $29 million extension. However, there's no evidence to suggest that Heyward is seeking a contract restructuring due to the recent rise in defensive player salaries.
The Steelers have also bolstered their roster with the addition of journeyman quarterback Logan Woodside, who was signed on Thursday.
Head coach Mike Tomlin explained that the veterans sitting out have less need for runway to take off due to their experience and established careers. This decision allows younger players like Howard to gain valuable experience and for the coaching staff to evaluate their progress.
As the preseason progresses, the Steelers will continue to manage their roster carefully, ensuring that their veteran stars remain healthy and prepared for the regular season while giving opportunities to promising young players.
- Mason Rudolph, the backup quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, has shown his capability to handle the position, gaining confidence from the team's management and fans.
- Skylar Thompson and rookie Will Howard are vying for the third-string quarterback position in the Pittsburgh Steelers roster, despite Howard's recent injury that required no surgery.
- Aaron Rodgers, despite sitting out the preseason opener as a precaution, has mentored young player Will Howard and praised his ability to command the offense.
- The Pittsburgh Steelers have brought in new quarterback Logan Woodside, with Head Coach Mike Tomlin explaining that the strategy allows younger players like Howard to gain experience and for the coaching staff to evaluate their progress.
- Pro Bowl defensive player Cameron Heyward, entering his 15th NFL season with the Steelers, has recently signed a two-year extension, but there's no indication he's seeking a contract restructuring due to the recent increase in defensive player salaries in American football, particularly in the NFL.
