Aaron Rodgers' ex-teammate gives clear verdict on 4x NFL MVP impacting Steelers' playoff odds

After several months of rumors and speculation, Aaron Rodgers finally made up his mind: He’s headed to Pittsburgh to become the Steelers’ new starting quarterback. Following a tumultuous 2024 NFL season, the Steelers decided to let Russell Wilson and Justin Fields walk away and shifted their focus to another veteran playmaker.

Rodgers had been linked to the Minnesota Vikings, New York Giants and, more recently, the New Orleans Saints before finally informing the Steelers of his intention to join them for one season.

With retirement speculation put to rest — at least for now — attention quickly turned to what the move means for Pittsburgh. Former Rodgers teammate James Jones, one of the quarterback’s most vocal defenders, made a bold prediction about the Steelers’ 2025 season on Friday's episode of "The Facility."

“Well they're a playoff team now," Jones said. "Once you get to the playoffs, anything can happen. We all know you just want to punch your ticket to the dance. … Coach Tomlin should have a smile on his face this morning because now your team has a chance to compete.

"A couple days ago, your team did not have a chance to compete, but Aaron Rodgers walking into that building, instantly you are a playoff team. You are going to get into the playoffs and whatever may happen in those playoffs, may happen, but I believe Aaron Rodgers still has a lot of good football left in him."

The Pittsburgh Steelers went through changes in the 2025 offseason to build a competitive roster for Rodgers. First, they traded for DK Metcalf from the Seattle Seahawks, then sent wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys.

Former teammate notes major factor in Aaron Rodgers' potential success in Pittsburgh

Another former Aaron Rodgers teammate, Kurt Benkert, shared his thoughts on the veteran quarterback joining the team he defeated to win his first and only Super Bowl. Benkert believes Pittsburgh could be must-watch football this season.

"The Steelers defense this year will be one of the better defenses Aaron Rodgers has played with in his career," Benkert tweeted Thursday. "If he can get back to his efficiency play, with a nasty run game. They are poised to be an uncomfortable team to play against."

Now that the saga has ended, the Steelers can focus on preparing to contend for Super Bowl LXI.