SouthernWorldwide.com – Former Super Bowl champion Joe Theismann has offered his perspective on Aaron Rodgers’ decision to return to the Pittsburgh Steelers, identifying head coach Mike McCarthy as the primary catalyst for the quarterback’s comeback.
Theismann, a seasoned NFL analyst, suggested that Rodgers would likely not have returned if he had been required to learn an entirely new offensive system and playbook under a different coordinator.
“If there was a different coordinator, I don’t think Aaron would have come back. If Mike’s there, I basically (thought) it was 90-10 (he would return),” Theismann stated.
The strong rapport between McCarthy and Rodgers, forged over 13 seasons with the Green Bay Packers, is seen by Theismann as a key factor in ensuring a seamless transition for the veteran quarterback.
Theismann elaborated on this point, explaining that the familiarity with the system would allow Rodgers to hit the ground running. He wouldn’t need extensive time during Organized Team Activities (OTAs) to grasp terminology or understand offensive reads.
“They’re still reunited when it comes to the system. Aaron doesn’t have to spend a lot of time in OTA’s understanding the terminology, figuring out the reads. He could coach anybody when it comes to the system that I’m sure they’re going to run. So, there’s a comfort level for him when he goes there. As far as not learning a new playbook,” Theismann explained.
Despite his age, Rodgers demonstrated last season that he still possesses considerable talent. As a four-time NFL MVP, he proved he still had “juice left in the tank.” In 16 games, he completed 65.7% of his passes for 3,322 yards, throwing 24 touchdowns against seven interceptions.
While Rodgers’ arm strength remains impressive, his mobility at 42 years old is not what it once was. Theismann emphasized the critical role the offensive line will play in protecting the quarterback.
“He’s going to get the ball out of his hands quickly,” Theismann said. “But they’re going to have to shore up the offensive line and protect him. If they want Aaron Rodgers to be the Aaron Rodgers that they hope he can be, they’re going to have to give him a chance to be able to hold the ball and throw it downfield.”
Even with a new head coach at the helm for the first time in nearly two decades, Theismann anticipates that the Steelers’ fundamental style of play will remain unchanged.
“Pittsburgh is still going to be Pittsburgh. I don’t think their mentality is going to change one bit. They are the Pittsburgh Steelers. They’re one tough football team that plays in a very tough division and it’s all about toughness in that division and Aaron has certainly shown how tough he can be,” Theismann remarked.
Theismann himself had a distinguished 12-season NFL career, spending his entire tenure with the Washington Redskins. He was recognized as the league MVP in 1983 and earned two Pro Bowl selections.
He famously led the Redskins to a Super Bowl victory in 1982, defeating the Miami Dolphins 27-17 in Super Bowl XVII. Throughout his career, Theismann completed 56.7% of his passes for 25,206 yards, with 160 touchdowns and 138 interceptions.
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Looking ahead, Theismann is set to compete in the American Century Championship from July 10-12 at Edgewood Golf Course in Lake Tahoe. The tournament will be broadcast on NBC and Peacock.
