Get ready for an NFL showdown dripping with drama! Aaron Rodgers, the four-time MVP, has inked a deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers, setting the stage for a thrilling 2025 season. But Cleveland Browns’ star Myles Garrett is already plotting to bury him—literally—in his infamous Halloween graveyard. Here’s the scoop on this spicy AFC North rivalry.
The Rodgers Redemption Tour Lands in Pittsburgh
After a rollercoaster offseason, Aaron Rodgers, the 41-year-old quarterback legend, has finally found a new home with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Signing a one-year, $13.6 million contract with up to $19.5 million in incentives, Rodgers is on a mission to revive his career and bring Super Bowl glory back to a franchise that hasn’t tasted it in 16 years.
A Rocky Road to the Steel City
Rodgers’ journey to Pittsburgh wasn’t a straight line. After two lackluster seasons with the New York Jets—including a 2023 campaign derailed by a torn Achilles just four plays in—his future was uncertain. The Jets’ 5-12 record in 2024 and the firing of coach Robert Saleh didn’t help. Yet, Rodgers still threw for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions last season, proving he’s got gas left in the tank.
The Steelers, meanwhile, were desperate for a game-changer. With a quarterback room featuring Mason Rudolph and rookie Will Howard, they rolled the dice on Rodgers. Head coach Mike Tomlin, whom Rodgers praised as a key reason for his decision, is betting on the veteran’s experience to end Pittsburgh’s eight-year playoff win drought.
Teaming Up with DK Metcalf
Adding fuel to the fire, the Steelers traded for wide receiver DK Metcalf, a 6’4” beast with a knack for big plays. Rodgers and Metcalf were spotted working out together in California, and their chemistry could be a nightmare for defenses. With tight end Pat Freiermuth and a solid offensive line, Pittsburgh’s offense is looking dangerous.
Myles Garrett’s Graveyard Threat
Enter Myles Garrett, the Cleveland Browns’ defensive juggernaut and 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year. When asked about Rodgers joining the AFC North, Garrett didn’t hold back: “I think it’s a good opportunity to put him in the graveyard.”
The Halloween Graveyard Gimmick
Garrett’s not talking about a literal burial (we hope). Since 2021, the 29-year-old pass rusher has turned his front yard into a spooky graveyard every Halloween, complete with tombstones engraved with the names of quarterbacks he’s sacked. With 102.5 career sacks, including 14 last season, Garrett’s “cemetery” is a who’s-who of NFL signal-callers.
In 2021, he even rocked a Grim Reaper costume with a cloak listing his victims. Now, Rodgers, who was sacked 40 times in 2024, is in his crosshairs. The Browns face the Steelers in Week 6 (October 12) and Week 17 (December 28), giving Garrett two shots to add Rodgers to his macabre collection.
Garrett’s History with Steelers QBs
Garrett’s no stranger to tormenting Pittsburgh quarterbacks. He’s racked up 13 sacks in 14 games against the Steelers, including a infamous 2019 brawl with Mason Rudolph that led to a six-game suspension. Steelers fans might wince at the memory, but Garrett’s 31 quarterback takedowns make his threat to Rodgers very real.
The AFC North Rivalry Heats Up
Rodgers’ arrival has turned the AFC North into a must-watch division. The Steelers, Browns, Baltimore Ravens, and Cincinnati Bengals are all gunning for supremacy, and Rodgers’ presence adds a juicy layer of intrigue.
Rodgers vs. Garrett: A Clash of Titans
Rodgers isn’t fazed by Garrett’s trash talk. Back in 2021, he called Garrett a “monster” with Hall of Fame potential. But at 41, Rodgers will need to rely on his quick release and football IQ to avoid becoming another tombstone. Pittsburgh’s offensive line, despite injury woes last season, must step up to protect their new QB.
Steelers’ High Stakes Gamble
Not everyone’s thrilled about Rodgers’ signing. Steelers legend Terry Bradshaw was vocal about wanting the team to steer clear of the polarizing QB. Critics point to Rodgers’ off-field antics and his messy exits from Green Bay and New York as red flags. The Athletic called the move a “gamble,” noting Pittsburgh’s history of banking on aging quarterbacks like Ben Roethlisberger and Russell Wilson.
Yet, Rodgers’ numbers speak for themselves: 62,952 career passing yards, 503 touchdowns, and a 102.6 passer rating (best all-time). If he can channel his MVP form, the Steelers could be Super Bowl contenders.
Key Matchups to Watch
| Date | Game | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Oct. 12 | Browns @ Steelers | Garrett’s first chance to sack Rodgers. |
| Dec. 28 | Steelers @ Browns | A late-season clash with playoff implications. |
| Sept. 7 | Steelers @ Jets | Rodgers faces his former team in the opener. |
| Oct. 26 | Packers @ Steelers | Rodgers vs. Green Bay, his home for 18 years. |
Conclusion: A Season of Fireworks Awaits
Aaron Rodgers’ move to Pittsburgh is the NFL’s hottest storyline heading into 2025. With a chip on his shoulder and a talented roster around him, he’s poised to silence doubters. But Myles Garrett’s graveyard threat looms large, promising a rivalry that’ll keep fans on the edge of their seats. Whether Rodgers ends up as a Steelers savior or another name on Garrett’s tombstones, one thing’s certain: the AFC North is about to get wild. Buckle up!