"It is okay to have an average season": Ex-NFL WR claims Mike Tomlin would be content with Steelers without Aaron Rodgers

Aaron Rodgers is giving a headache to the football world by delaying his decision on whether he'll play in the NFL this year, and the Pittsburgh Steelers are right in the middle of it. Former wide receiver James Jones believes that Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin would be fine with having an average season in 2025.

While appearing on the popular show 'The Facility,' Jones detailed his belief that the Steelers will be looking for their quarterback of the future in the 2026 NFL Draft, regardless of whether free agent quarterback Aaron Rodgers signs with the team this year.

"Mike's good... Mike Tomlin has been in the playoffs every single year almost, and no losing seasons since he's been the head coach for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He's totally fine. And to be honest with you, I think their plan is, even if Aaron Rodgers does not show up, it is okay to have an average season this year and get our quarterback of the future next year..."

Jones continued by making clear that Tomlin's job security is in no danger even if the Steelers have a terrible 2025 campaign.

"Either way, if he wins two games, if he wins 12 games, Mike Tomlin is safe as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, and you go when you get your quarterback of the future next year, and if Aaron Rodgers does come, then your team has a chance to compete, but he is not going anywhere."

Prior to the 2025 NFL Draft, the Steelers were rumored to add to their current QB room using a high-round draft pick, potentially to select either Jaxson Dart or Shedeur Sanders. However, the franchise decided against using a high pick on a quarterback this year, instead using their sixth-round, No. 185 overall pick on Ohio State Buckeyes QB Will Howard.

Pittsburgh Steelers QB plan ft. Aaron Rodgers

Should the Steelers sign Aaron Rodgers this offseason, it appears as though he would be the one to lead the team in 2025. Following that, there is an expectation that the team would focus on selecting their long-term QB of the future in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Should Rodgers not sign with Pittsburgh this offseason, the current QBs on the roster are Mason Rudolph, Howard, and Skylar Thompson, a room that does not inspire too much confidence for success next season.

Only time will tell what the Steelers do at quarterback in 2025. However, Jones seems to think Tomlin's job is safe no matter the result next year.