Jim Nantz Makes Passionate Plea for Aaron Rodgers to Lead Steelers in 2025 NFL Season

Veteran sportscaster Jim Nantz made a heartfelt pitch during the NFL Network’s schedule release special, expressing his desire to see Aaron Rodgers quarterbacking the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2025 NFL season. With CBS set to frequently broadcast Steelers games, Nantz emphasized the need for the team to be competitive.

He praised Rodgers’ recent performance, claiming the quarterback was underappreciated statistically and still had much to offer on the field. Nantz highlighted the potential synergy between Rodgers, head coach Mike Tomlin, and star linebacker T.J. Watt, suggesting it would make the Steelers a formidable team.

Steelers Leave Door Open as Rodgers Weighs Future and Roster Spot Looms

Speculation has surrounded Rodgers’ next move following his release from the New York Jets after two seasons. The 41-year-old quarterback has been linked repeatedly to the Steelers, with team owner Art Rooney II publicly stating that signing Rodgers remains a possibility. As Rodgers deliberates over his NFL future, the Steelers appear to be keeping the door open for him, awaiting a decision that could significantly impact their season outlook.

The Steelers currently have three quarterbacks on their roster: Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson, and rookie Will Howard, who was selected in the sixth round of the draft. General manager Omar Khan has indicated that the team intends to bring four quarterbacks to training camp, signaling that a new addition is imminent. Rodgers’ experience and leadership would clearly set him apart from the current group, positioning him as a valuable potential acquisition.

Nantz Jokes About Fundraiser, Urges Rodgers to Join Steelers for 2025 Season

In a humorous moment during the schedule discussion, Nantz joked about starting a fundraising effort to persuade Rodgers to join the Steelers. Broadcasting live from Quail Hollow ahead of the PGA Championship, he quipped about collecting up to seven figures as a “feel-good” gesture to support Rodgers’ signing. While the comment was made in jest, it underscored Nantz’s genuine enthusiasm and desire to see Rodgers return to the field in black and gold.

Rodgers himself has stated that salary is not a major concern, even mentioning during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show that he would be willing to play the 2025 season for $10 million. While the Steelers remain patient, the broader football world—Nantz included—is eager for Rodgers to make his decision. As Nantz concluded in his emotional appeal, “We want you, we need you, and we’re looking forward to seeing you,” summarizing the hopes of many fans and broadcasters alike.