Here’s a 900-word article based on the headline “Steelers Veteran Alex Highsmith Sounds Off on Aaron Rodgers Situation as NFL Season Approaches”:
Steelers Veteran Alex Highsmith Sounds Off on Aaron Rodgers Situation as NFL Season Approaches
As the NFL gears up for the 2025 season, few storylines have captivated fans and media like the saga surrounding New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers. After a highly anticipated 2023 season that ended in disaster due to a torn Achilles on his first drive, and a dramatic 2024 return filled with promise but marred by internal team tensions, Rodgers is once again the center of attention.
Now, with offseason headlines swirling around Rodgers’ participation in Jets minicamp, his relationships within the locker room, and speculation about his long-term commitment to football, players across the league are weighing in. One voice that’s generating buzz: Pittsburgh Steelers veteran edge rusher Alex Highsmith.
Highsmith, known for his quiet confidence and growing leadership on the Steelers’ defense, didn’t hold back when asked about the Rodgers situation during a recent appearance on The Blitz Podcast.
Highsmith’s Take: “It’s a Distraction”
When asked what he thought of Rodgers’ ongoing media presence and reported absences from early team activities, Highsmith was blunt.
“At some point, you’ve got to ask—are you in or are you out? This league doesn’t wait for anybody. I respect Rodgers, I respect what he’s done, but the constant headlines, the interviews, the mystery about whether he’s fully bought in—it’s a distraction,” Highsmith said.
Highsmith emphasized that his comments weren’t personal, but rooted in how locker rooms function.
“When you’ve got 53 guys grinding every day, trying to get better, trying to build something—especially on a team that hasn’t been in the playoffs in a while—you need total buy-in. If your quarterback isn’t all in, it affects everybody. That’s just facts.”
The Steelers linebacker was careful not to criticize Rodgers’ talent or legacy. In fact, he praised the future Hall of Famer’s ability and football IQ, calling him “one of the smartest players to ever lace them up.” But he contrasted Rodgers’ approach with that of other veteran QBs, including Ben Roethlisberger in his final seasons.
“Ben didn’t always say much, but he was present. He showed up and set the tone. That matters.”
Steelers Culture vs. Jets Uncertainty
Highsmith’s comments reflect more than just opinion—they underscore the difference in culture between two storied franchises. The Steelers, long known for stability and discipline under head coach Mike Tomlin, have maintained a locker room that demands accountability from rookies to veterans.
“Here in Pittsburgh, we don’t care who you are. Rookie or ten-year vet—you show up and do the work,” Highsmith added.
By contrast, the Jets have endured a rollercoaster of quarterback drama over the past decade. From Zach Wilson’s struggles to Rodgers’ injury-shortened debut, the team has struggled to find stability at the game’s most important position. While Rodgers has provided a veteran presence and even hosted team bonding events in the offseason, questions continue to linger about whether he’ll finish the year—and whether he’s fully committed.
Teammates React
Highsmith’s comments drew mixed reactions across the league. Some players, including current and former Jets, defended Rodgers.
Jets linebacker C.J. Mosley responded on social media:
“Aaron is one of the most locked-in leaders I’ve ever played with. He brings accountability, vision, and experience. Don’t mistake silence or individuality for lack of commitment.”
Meanwhile, former NFL lineman and current analyst Ryan Harris backed Highsmith’s assessment:
“Alex is just saying what a lot of players feel but won’t say. If your QB is more known for his podcast quotes than his practice reps, it’s going to rub people the wrong way.”
Highsmith’s Rising Profile
Highsmith’s bold comments come at a time when he is emerging as a key leader in the Steelers locker room. Entering his fifth NFL season, the 2020 third-round pick has steadily improved every year, posting 11.5 sacks in 2024 and playing a critical role opposite T.J. Watt on the Steelers’ defensive front.
In July 2023, Highsmith signed a four-year, $68 million extension with Pittsburgh—a move that signaled the team’s belief in him as a core defensive pillar.
Teammates and coaches have praised Highsmith for his professionalism, tireless work ethic, and growing voice in the locker room.
“He’s a guy you want young players to watch. He shows up, stays late, studies the game, and speaks up when it matters,” said head coach Mike Tomlin earlier this offseason.
With a blend of humility and fire, Highsmith has grown into a respected voice—not just in Pittsburgh, but now on the national stage.
Rodgers’ Silence—For Now
Aaron Rodgers has yet to respond publicly to Highsmith’s remarks. In typical Rodgers fashion, he’s been selective in his media appearances, often choosing podcasts or long-form interviews over press conferences. Whether he’ll address the criticism head-on remains to be seen.
Jets head coach Robert Saleh downplayed the situation in a recent media scrum, saying, “Aaron’s focused. He’s in our facility. He’s helping us build. That’s what matters. Opinions outside this building don’t move us.”
Still, as training camp nears and scrutiny intensifies, the spotlight on Rodgers—and his every move—won’t fade anytime soon.
A League Watching Closely
Highsmith’s comments reflect a broader sentiment growing in NFL circles: that leadership, especially at quarterback, matters as much off the field as on it. With the AFC stacked with quarterback talent—from Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen to Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson—the Jets’ success hinges not just on Rodgers’ arm, but on his presence, reliability, and ability to unify a team hungry for success.
As for Highsmith, his words may have stirred the pot—but they also spotlight the standard being set in Pittsburgh: accountability, focus, and full commitment.
And with Week 1 just around the corner, the message from players like Highsmith is clear: there’s no room for distractions when a championship is on the line.
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