Quarterback Aaron Rodgers has 19 more years of NFL experience than some of his offensive linemen.
So, it’s not surprising the 41-year-old quarterback had a message for the Pittsburgh Steelers line early in training camp.
Rodgers shared while appearing on the latest episode of Cameron Heyward’s Not Just Football Podcast, which was released Tuesday, that he delivered that message through some tough love.
“[Skylar Thompson] got knocked down early in camp, and I walked out there like, ‘What the hell just happened?’” Rodgers told Heyward. “I looked back and nobody was walking out there.
“And I told the line, ‘Don’t you ever let that happen again.’
“I said, ‘We gotta protect each other, and you guys are the policemen out there on the field.
You’re the big brothers out there. You protect everybody from DK [Metcalf] to me to whoever’s in there quarterback or whoever’s in there running back.
I don’t care if it’s preseason practice, whatever. You gotta protect them.’”
Aaron Rodgers Mentoring Young Steelers Offensive Line
Steelers Depot’s Alex Kozora called what Rodgers was referring to as “a code” between the offensive line and quarterback.
There’s likely few current NFL signal-callers who understand that code better than Rodgers, who is entering his 21st season in the league.
It didn’t sound like Rodgers was encouraging his linemen to instigate fights. But he wants the line to police any attack on a Steelers quarterback.
In modern football, a quarterback getting knocked down in a training camp practice is considered an attack. They happen, but when they do, fights often break out.
Last year, linebacker Elandon Roberts knocked down Justin Fields at Steelers practice. A big scrum between the team’s offense and defense ensued afterwards.
Fans who have watched football for years might be surprised that the Steelers offensive linemen aren’t aware of the code Rodgers was referring to. But Pittsburgh’s line is very young and inexperienced.
Four of the team’s five starters are 25 or younger. Three of Pittsburgh’s projected starting linemen are entering their second NFL season.
Cameron Heyward Apologizes to Rodgers
With Rodgers appearing on Heyward’s podcast, one of the bigger things to watch for was whether the defensive lineman would address his offseason comments on Rodgers.
When Heyward’s podcast co-host, Hayden Walsh, asked in March about his potential pitch to Rodgers to sign with the Steelers in 2025, Heyward provided a rather blunt response.
“I ain’t doing that darkness retreat. I don’t need any of that crap. Either you want to be a Pittsburgh Steeler or you don’t,” said Heyward. “That’s simple, that’s the pitch.”
The defensive lineman was referencing a “darkness retreat” that Rodgers used in February 2023 to help him decide his future with the Green Bay Packers.
Shortly after the retreat, the Packers traded Rodgers to the New York Jets.
The Steelers defensive linemen apologized to Rodgers at the beginning of his appearance on Tuesday’s Not Just Football.
“I have to apologize,” Heyward said. “I guess my words were taken out of context when I said if you want to be a Pittsburgh Steeler or not.”
Rodgers responded that he “was hurt” that Heyward used to the media to make a statement about him based on preconceived notions.
The defensive lineman initially laughed when Rodgers said Heyward’s comment hurt him.
It’s possible the quarterback was using dry sarcasm, but his tone appeared as if he was serious about being hurt.
The pair had a couple awkward pauses early in the interview, but overall, Rodgers’ podcast appearance with Heyward appeared to go well.
News
Life off the field is taking center stage for Dak Prescott as he and ex-fiancée Sarah Jane Ramos navigate a complicated custody situation following their high-profile breakup. After what many described as a messy split, both sides are now reportedly focused on finding a stable path forward — putting co-parenting and long-term priorities ahead of past tensions. For Prescott, the situation adds a deeply personal layer to an already demanding career with the Dallas Cowboys, where pressure never really lets up. Sources suggest efforts are being made to keep matters as private and constructive as possible, even as public interest continues to grow. Fans have been watching closely, with reactions ranging from support to curiosity about how things will unfold. But one key approach both sides are taking is what’s drawing the most attention. And it could define how this situation evolves moving forward.
Dak Prescott and ex-fiancée Sarah Jane Ramos are taking steps to amicably come to terms on a temporary custody arrangement…
Josh Allen and Hailee Steinfeld Announce Birth of First Child — The Buffalo Bills Star and Hollywood Actress Share Joyful News, Marking a New Chapter as They Welcome Their Baby Into the World.
Bills quarterback Josh Allen and his wife, actress Hailee Steinfeld, are officially a family of three. The couple announced Thursday…
A powerful full-circle moment is unfolding for an NFL player whose actions off the field once made headlines for all the right reasons. After bravely pulling a man from a burning car and saving his life, the National Football League star is now being handed a career lifeline of his own — a second chance that’s capturing attention across the football world. At the time, his heroic act drew widespread praise, showing a side of athletes fans don’t always get to see. Now, as he looks to revive his career, that moment is being remembered as more than just a headline — but a reflection of character. Teams are always weighing talent against intangibles, and stories like this can carry real weight. As news spreads, support is pouring in from fans and insiders alike. But one key detail about this opportunity is what’s standing out most. And it could determine whether this comeback truly takes hold.
KJ OSBORN has reportedly agreed a one-year deal with the Tennessee Titans. The wide receiver, 28, has not played in…
All eyes were on Fernando Mendoza — and he delivered. With representatives from the Las Vegas Raiders in attendance, Mendoza used Indiana Pro Day to make a powerful statement, strengthening his case to be the No. 1 overall pick. From sharp throws to confident command, everything about his performance suggested a quarterback ready for the next level. For teams searching for a franchise leader, moments like this carry serious weight — especially when decision-makers are watching up close. The Raiders’ presence only added intrigue, fueling speculation about their intentions at the top of the draft. As buzz builds, Mendoza is quickly shifting from prospect to centerpiece of the conversation. But standout performances come with rising expectations. And one specific element of his Pro Day is what scouts are talking about most. It might be the factor that ultimately separates him from the rest of the class.
BLOOMINGTON, IN — The Raiders have been careful not to prematurely anoint Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza as the first pick overall in next month’s…
Jason Kelce isn’t holding back — and this time, his comments are aimed straight at the Detroit Lions. The former star sparked buzz after roasting the franchise for what he sees as a repeat of a controversial retirement situation that previously left fans furious with ownership. By bringing it back into the spotlight, Kelce has reignited debate around how the organization handles major player decisions. For Lions supporters, it’s a sensitive topic — one tied to past frustrations and lingering questions about leadership choices. Kelce’s remarks have quickly made the rounds online, with fans both agreeing and pushing back on his take. As the conversation grows, attention is shifting back to the decision itself and whether lessons were truly learned. But one specific comparison Kelce made is what’s drawing the most attention. And it might explain why this issue still resonates so strongly today.
The Detroit Lions have threatened to damage their relationship with former center Frank Ragnow after asking him to return a…
A troubling incident has put former Dallas Cowboys player Trysten Hill back in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Hill was arrested following allegations of assault involving a pregnant woman, with details from the incident quickly sparking outrage online. Images reportedly showing him smiling after the arrest have only intensified reactions, adding another layer of controversy to an already serious situation. As the case unfolds, questions are being raised about accountability and the broader issue of off-field conduct among professional athletes. Legal proceedings are expected to determine what actually happened, but the public response has been swift and emotional. For many, the focus remains on the severity of the allegations and the impact beyond football. But one specific detail in the arrest report is what’s drawing the most attention. And it could play a key role in how this case develops.
Former Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Trysten Hill was arrested in Texas for allegedly assaulting a pregnant woman. Hill, 28, was…
End of content
No more pages to load
