Mike Tomlin shared final thoughts on Aaron Rodgers and the starting QB role

For almost three months, Mike Tomlin found himself grappling with questions over who his quarterback for the 2025 season would be. But now, he has a definite and decisive answer to them.

On Friday, the Pittsburgh Steelers signed Aaron Rodgers, ending a protracted period of speculation. He immediately bolsters what was formerly a very dubious quarterback room, consisting of Skylar Thompson, returnee Mason Rudolph, and rookie Will Howard.

Speaking to the press during the first day of mandatory minicamp on Tuesday, Mike Tomlin confirmed that the multiple-time MVP would be the team's starter.

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Tomlin said there will not be a quarterback competition. It is Aaron Rodgers job. Period.

Tomlin also expressed his excitement at them working together, saying:

“I mean, read his resume. We’re excited about him being here. He’s excited to be here. But we’ll make no bold predictions; we’ll just roll our sleeves up and work.”

Meanwhile, Rodgers, for his own part, is also excited at playing for an idol and former Super Bowl opponent whom he considers "the main draw" behind his decision:

"There's a few iconic franchises in the NFL. I played for one of 'em for 18 years. This is another one of those. There's something special about, obviously, this area... I feel like Pittsburgh has been a part of my career from the beginning."

Rodgers will be playing on a one-year, $13.65-million contract with $10 million guaranteed. He will also be entitled to $5.85 million in incentives should he play 70% of all offensive snaps, from $500,000 for just making the playoffs all the way to $1.5 million for winning the Super Bowl or being adjudged MVP.

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Mike Tomlin gets candid on TJ Watt's contract holdout

One name notably absent from the minicamp was pass rusher TJ Watt, who is entering the final year of the extension he signed in 2021. And Mike Tomlin, while understanding his plight, is feeling his absence. In the same presser, he said:

"Certainly we'd like him to be here, but certainly not surprised by where we are. We've expressed a desire to get the business done, (and) he has as well, and so we'll continue to work. We've been here before about his future. ... Whatever communication transpires between he and I will remain there."

The former Defensive Player of the Year is expected to earn $21.05 million in base pay for 2025.