Steelers Quarterback Analysis: 2025 Season Review
The Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback play in 2025 was a steadying force during a season filled with roster changes. With a 10-7 record, they clinched the AFC North title, although their playoff journey ended abruptly in the wild-card round.
Veteran Aaron Rodgers led the charge in his 21st NFL season, offering consistency, while backup Mason Rudolph provided reliable support. Rookie Will Howard, unfortunately, spent the year on injured reserve, leaving the spotlight on the active quarterbacks.
Aaron Rodgers: The Veteran Leader
Aaron Rodgers joined the Steelers from the New York Jets in June 2025 and started all 16 regular-season games. His experience was pivotal in guiding the team to a division title.
Completing 327 of 498 passes, Rodgers maintained a 65.7% completion rate, throwing for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions. His passer rating of 94.8 ranked him 12th among quarterbacks, reflecting efficiency, though not the explosive playmaking of his earlier years.
Rodgers averaged 6.7 yards per attempt, a dip from previous seasons, partly due to an offensive line that allowed pressure on 35.2% of dropbacks, the ninth-highest in the league. Despite this, he showed flashes of brilliance, like his four-touchdown performance against the Ravens and an 80-yard pass to D.K. Metcalf in a comeback win over the Bengals.
However, December saw a dip in his performance, with a 78.3 rating as the team went 2-2. His leadership and low turnover rate were crucial, but the offense's 15th-place ranking in scoring at 23.4 points per game highlighted areas for improvement.
Grade: B
Rodgers' leadership and experience were vital, but the offense's lack of explosive plays kept them from being top contenders. His arm strength remained impressive, but mobility was limited, with only 42 rushing yards on 15 attempts.
Mason Rudolph: Reliable Backup
Mason Rudolph, in his eighth season, appeared in five games, primarily in relief roles. He completed 38 of 52 passes for a 73.1% completion rate, accumulating 310 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. His most significant contribution was in a Week 13 win over the Browns, throwing for 128 yards and a touchdown.
Rudolph's efficiency in limited action was commendable, but his interception rate of 3.8% pointed to decision-making challenges. Despite this, his familiarity with the system provided stability when Rodgers was unavailable.
Grade: C+
Rudolph was dependable in spot duty but lacked the upside of a regular starter. His rapport with Rodgers contributed positively to the team dynamic.
Will Howard: Potential Yet Untapped
Rookie Will Howard's season was sidelined by a preseason shoulder injury, leaving him without any NFL snaps. His college performance at Ohio State hinted at potential, but an evaluation will have to wait.
Skylar Thompson: Preseason Standout
Skylar Thompson impressed during preseason but remained an emergency backup without regular-season action.
Overall QB Assessment
Collective Grade: B-
The stability provided by Rodgers was crucial for a team in transition.
Rudolph's familiarity with the system prevented any major setbacks. However, the lack of depth and explosive plays limited their potential.
The Steelers' passing game ranked 17th in the NFL, with 3,632 yards and 26 touchdowns. While the team improved from their 9-8 record in 2024, the playoff defeat exposed vulnerabilities, particularly in the passing game, where Rodgers struggled against Houston.
As the Steelers look ahead, enhancing the depth and dynamism of their aerial attack will be key to reaching the next level.