Pittsburgh Steelers Reveal Interesting Jersey Number Choice For Aaron Rodgers Steelers new offense is SCARY 🔥

Aaron Rodgers Joins Steelers, Will Wear No. 8 Jersey in Pittsburgh After Leaving Jets

In one of the most unexpected developments of the NFL offseason, veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers has officially signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, bringing an end to a brief and disappointing tenure with the New York Jets. While the announcement of his signing was major news in itself, what quickly became a topic of fan curiosity was the number he would wear in his new uniform. Now, that question has been answered.

Rodgers, a future Hall of Famer and longtime face of the Green Bay Packers, has agreed to a one-year contract with the Steelers worth $13.65 million, with $10 million guaranteed. The deal could potentially reach a total value of $19.5 million, thanks to an additional $5.85 million in performance-based incentives. It’s a significant move by Pittsburgh as they aim to solidify their quarterback situation and push deeper into playoff contention in the upcoming 2025 season.

Rodgers to Wear No. 8 in Pittsburgh

On Saturday afternoon, the Steelers unveiled Rodgers’ new jersey in a post on X (formerly Twitter), showing the veteran signal-caller donning Pittsburgh’s black and gold threads with the No. 8 across his chest. The number choice marks a return to familiar territory for Rodgers, who previously wore No. 8 during his college days at the University of California, Berkeley, and again during his short stint with the Jets.

Rodgers famously wore the No. 12 throughout his 18 seasons with the Packers, a number he made iconic during his Super Bowl-winning tenure in Green Bay. However, No. 12 holds special significance in Pittsburgh and is essentially off-limits—even if not officially retired.

That’s because the number was once worn by Steelers legend Terry Bradshaw, the quarterback who led the team to four Super Bowl victories in the 1970s and helped define an era of dominance. While the organization has never formally retired Bradshaw’s number, it is understood internally and among fans that No. 12 is untouchable out of respect for what Bradshaw accomplished.

Adding another layer of intrigue to the jersey decision is the somewhat rocky history between Bradshaw and Rodgers. Bradshaw has made public comments over the years that were critical of Rodgers, questioning his leadership style and personality. Given that background, it’s hard to imagine the team even considering letting Rodgers wear No. 12, knowing it could stir controversy—both with Bradshaw and the Steelers faithful.

A Familiar Number for a Fresh Start

Choosing No. 8 may have been both a nostalgic and practical decision for Rodgers. His use of the number in college and more recently with the Jets made the transition smooth, and the number likely holds personal meaning for the 40-year-old quarterback.

However, it wasn’t a completely straightforward switch. No. 8 was previously assigned to Steelers punter Corliss Waitman, suggesting that some behind-the-scenes negotiation likely occurred before Rodgers could claim it for himself. It’s a common practice in the NFL for veterans or stars to “buy” a number from a current player—either with cash, gifts, or favors—and while nothing official has been disclosed, it’s probable that some deal was struck.

Rodgers’ Short-Lived Jets Chapter Ends

Rodgers’ move to Pittsburgh also signals the official end of his brief time with the New York Jets. After being traded from the Packers to New York in the 2023 offseason, expectations were sky-high for the Jets with Rodgers under center. But just four plays into his debut game, Rodgers tore his Achilles tendon, ending his season almost immediately. He spent the remainder of the year rehabbing, and while there were rumors he might attempt a late-season comeback, he ultimately stayed sidelined.

Now, with the Jets moving forward in a new direction and Rodgers looking to maximize what could be his final season or two in the NFL, the Steelers offer him a fresh opportunity to chase another Super Bowl ring—this time with one of the league’s most storied franchises.

A New Chapter in the Steel City

Rodgers joins a Pittsburgh team that has been searching for long-term stability at quarterback since the retirement of Ben Roethlisberger. While Kenny Pickett showed flashes of potential, the Steelers appear to be in “win-now” mode and are banking on Rodgers to bring experience, leadership, and high-level play to an offense that includes rising talents like wide receiver George Pickens and running back Najee Harris.

Head coach Mike Tomlin has consistently kept the Steelers competitive, even during rebuilding phases. With Rodgers now under center, expectations will be even higher heading into the 2025 campaign.

Final Thoughts

Aaron Rodgers’ arrival in Pittsburgh is one of the headline stories of the 2025 NFL offseason. While his age and recent injury history raise questions, his resume and football IQ are unmatched. His choice to wear No. 8 marks a return to his roots while also respecting the deep history of his new franchise.

The Steelers are betting that a rejuvenated Rodgers can deliver on the field, and fans in Pittsburgh are hoping he can do what he once did in Green Bay—lead a team to the pinnacle of NFL success. Only time will tell if this gamble pays off, but one thing’s for sure: all eyes will be on the Steel City this fall.