On the first day of training camp at Saint Vincent College, Aaron Rodgers’ initial pass was intercepted by linebacker Patrick Queen. Despite the unpadded practice setting, Rodgers took it in stride.
“It’s good to get that out of the way,” Rodgers commented. “Anyone who’s watched me practice over the years, you know I like to try certain throws at certain times. And anybody who has watched me during games knows I’ve been pretty stellar taking care of the football.”
Rodgers holds an impressive record with only 1.4 percent of his career passes resulting in interceptions, making him a standout in NFL history with 117 interceptions throughout his career.
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Rodgers said, “It’s going to be a challenge for me throwing in the heat every single day. It’s going to be a good challenge for me every single day. I’m going to throw some picks, but I’m going to throw some touchdowns, too.”
The Steelers were eager to add Rodgers this offseason due to his touchdown capabilities. At 41 years old, he joined Pittsburgh shortly before minicamp began in June after being released by the Jets in March. Last season alone, he threw 28 touchdown passes and has amassed 503 throughout his career.
Head coach Mike Tomlin praised Rodgers’ work ethic: “He’s a workaholic,” Tomlin stated. “I don’t have a whole lot or reservations about that. He has hardened himself over the course of his career with his attitude toward work.”
Rodgers also expressed high expectations for himself and his team: “I think most of the 32 teams would probably say something to that accord,” referring to Super Bowl aspirations. “But I really think there’s really only six to eight that really have a legitimate chance… on paper, we’re probably one of those 10.”
Following two consecutive seasons ending with Wildcard playoff losses and records of 10-7 each year, Pittsburgh is hopeful for improvement under their new quarterback’s leadership.
Rodgers is also aiding teammates as they adjust back into dorm life during training camp—a familiar experience from his time with Green Bay Packers where he biked daily during camp sessions.
“I have DK (Metcalf) as my suite mate,” shared Rodgers about living arrangements while expressing enthusiasm about bonding opportunities available within Latrobe’s unique environment: “I love this idea…to stay here and connect with guys.”
