Steelers Sideline Aaron Rodgers, Key Starters Preseason Finale

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has decided not to play quarterback Aaron Rodgers in the final preseason game against the Carolina Panthers, meaning Rodgers' debut will be in Week 1 of the regular season. Despite concerns about Rodgers' lack of preseason reps to adapt to the Steelers' new offensive scheme under coordinator Arthur Smith, Tomlin expressed confidence in what he has seen from Rodgers in practice. Veteran quarterback Rodgers, who is 41, has historically played very limited preseason football and has spoken positively about his relationship with Smith. ESPN's Field Yates projects Garrett Nussmeier as a potential successor to Rodgers with the Steelers, though he ranks Nussmeier 16th in his early 2026 NFL draft mock, citing concerns about his athleticism and decision-making. Meanwhile, tight end Washington has had an excellent training camp, showing elite blocking and receiving skills, and is expected to be a favored target for Rodgers this season. Sports analyst Stephen A. Smith has expressed a desire to see Rodgers play in the preseason to better acclimate to the Steelers' system, highlighting the ongoing debate about Rodgers' preparation.