Former NFL star and current ESPN radio host Chris Canty has expressed skepticism about the potential impact of Aaron Rodgers on the Pittsburgh Steelers, questioning whether the four-time NFL MVP will significantly elevate the team’s performance in his first season with the franchise. After a prolonged negotiation, Rodgers agreed to a one-year contract with the Steelers in June, marking a significant move in the NFL free agent market. The Steelers’ decision to sign Rodgers, who was previously a high-profile free agent, has sparked varied opinions among fans and sports analysts, with Canty being one of the more vocal critics.
Canty, a former defensive lineman for the New York Giants, voiced his concerns during a recent episode of ESPN’s ‘First Take,’ where he described the idea of Rodgers returning to his former MVP form in Pittsburgh as a ‘hoax.’ He argued that the Steelers have pinned the quarterback’s regression on injuries and age, but Canty believes that the natural decline of a veteran player means they are unlikely to recover their previous peak performance. ‘As players get older, they don’t get healthier,’ he stated, underscoring his belief that Rodgers’ move to Pittsburgh is unlikely to substantially improve the team’s standing.
The financial terms of the contract are reported to be worth $13.65 million, with $10 million in guaranteed payments and possible incentives pushing the total value to a maximum of $19.5 million. Canty, however, expressed doubt about the Steelers’ chances of ‘raising the floor’ for their performance, given the team’s recent struggles, such as their poor sack defense and the loss of key players like Najee Harris. In addition, Canty raised concerns about Rodgers’ commitment to the Steelers, noting his comments on ‘The Pat McAfee Show’ suggested more personal interest than team focus. The Steelers have also confirmed that Rodgers will wear No. 8, the same number he previously wore with the New York Jets.
Rodgers, who finished the 2024 season with 3,897 passing yards and 28 touchdowns against 11 interceptions, has faced criticism from various quarters, including Canty, who questioned whether his performance with the Jets was beneficial for the team. Canty emphasized that the Steelers’ decision to sign Rodgers appears to be an overestimation of his capabilities, especially considering the team’s ongoing challenges. As the 2025 season approaches, the Steelers face significant questions about whether the addition of a proven quarterback like Rodgers will address their long-standing issues or exacerbate them, depending on how the team’s performance unfolds.