Aaron Rodgers makes feelings clear about ex-Michigan star’s 'approval’ in practice

Aaron Rodgers makes feelings clear about ex-Michigan star’s 'approval’ in practice originally appeared on The Sporting News

The Steelers made headlines this offseason by bringing in Aaron Rodgers—a move that raised eyebrows, not just because of his age or injury history, but because of everything that comes with him. 

Love him or hate him, Rodgers has never been one to hold back. Clearly, that hasn’t changed.

After Wednesday’s practice, the veteran quarterback offered a surprisingly honest take when asked about working with rookie wide receiver Roman Wilson.

“I need to get Roman out of his own head a bit,” Rodgers said. “He cares so much about whether it’s my approval or if he’s doing it right. He’s just got to trust himself because he’s so damn talented.”

It was one of those moments that gave a real glimpse into what’s happening behind the scenes—a veteran quarterback trying to bring along a young receiver still finding his footing. Most guys would’ve kept that kind of thing in-house. Rodgers put it right out there.

That kind of honesty is just who he is. But it also shows the kind of pressure Roman Wilson might be under as he tries to carve out a role.

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Wilson didn’t get on the field at all last season. A string of injuries wiped out what should’ve been his rookie year. Now he’s healthy and in line to start in the slot—and Rodgers clearly has his eye on him.

This kind of openness marks a clear shift from the more buttoned-up leadership styles of Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, both of whom Pittsburgh moved on from this offseason. The Steelers didn’t just sign Rodgers to make headlines—they brought him in to push them back into contention.

Whether Rodgers’ no-filter approach helps or hurts a young player like Wilson remains to be seen. But if this early exchange is any indication, the Rodgers era in Pittsburgh won’t be boring.