The Aaron Rodgers-Mike McCarthy problem no one is talking about for Steelers originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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It’s going to be one of the easiest narratives to discuss for the remainder of the NFL offseason.
Yes, Aaron Rodgers and Mike McCarthy have worked together before this upcoming season with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Yes, they won a Super Bowl together with the Green Bay Packers.
But here’s the kicker: That game was played in February 2011.
Last we checked, it’s now 2026.
Yep, 15 years have passed, and that means this isn’t going to be as straightforward as the past partnership would suggest.
The good news is likely that they’ll know a lot about how each other operates off the field.
On the field, though? McCarthy has never coached this version of Rodgers.
Rodgers was in his prime, maybe the most naturally talented QB the NFL had ever seen as far as arm talent was concerned.
Now, he’s 42 years old. He’s got lots of intelligence, moxie and spunk still, but the arm and mobility isn’t what it used to be.
Can McCarthy figure it out here? His most recent head coaching gig was with the Dallas Cowboys and an in-his-prime Dak Prescott.
Rodgers simply is something different. Even with a talented receiving corps led by DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr., the Steelers have to make sure Rodgers doesn’t hold onto the football too long.
The line has to protect him and his pass catchers have to get open quickly.
McCarthy has a strong football mind and can do his best to make that happen.
But their past connection? That means less than most will try to make it seem.
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