Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers Wishes He Could Have Played 10 Years With 1 Offensive Star

The Pittsburgh Steelers' season was in shambles after the Week 13 contest at home against the Buffalo Bills. Pittsburgh went into halftime clinging to a 7–3 lead, only to completely unravel after the break, getting outscored 23–0 in the second half and suffering a deflating loss at Acrisure Stadium. The frustration inside the building spilled into the stands, where Steelers fans made their voices heard by chanting "Fire Tomlin" throughout the second half, a rare and jarring moment for one of the most stable franchises in the NFL.

After the game, Head Coach Mike Tomlin did not deflect or overreact. Instead, he delivered a simple message to Steelers media, telling them to keep watching. Pittsburgh did exactly that, responding with three straight statement wins that flipped the narrative of the season and reestablished the team’s identity. What once looked like a lost year suddenly became a reminder of why Tomlin has never endured a losing season and why the Steelers remain dangerous when counted out.

One of the biggest reasons for that turnaround has been running back Kenneth Gainwell, affectionately known as Kenny G, who has truly come into his own during the 2025 season. Playing on a one-year deal worth just $1.79 million, Gainwell has been an incredible value pickup, producing at an elite level both as a runner and as a pass catcher. His impact has not gone unnoticed, especially by quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who has played with some of the most talented players in NFL history over his 21-year career, making his praise of Gainwell especially telling about just how important the unsung Steelers playmaker has become this season.

"An unbelievable catch by Kenny," Rodgers said while speaking to the Steelers media after the 29-24 win over the Detroit Lions on Sunday afternoon. "If it’s just [pass interference], it’s three points. But to catch it, somehow get his hand under the ball, get up and score was incredible. He’s so da** smart. I mean, I was just telling him I wish I played with him for 10 years just because the kind of player that he is."

That praise from one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play the game is an insane compliment, but it speaks directly to the level Gainwell is playing at. Many football fans knew Gainwell had talent and believed he was flying under the radar, and the Steelers clearly felt the same way. Still, his market value sitting at just $1.79 million before the season says a lot about how he was viewed league wide.

Rodgers’ goal was to help Gainwell get paid, and he has done exactly that, as Gainwell has rushed for 501 yards on 102 carries, scoring four rushing touchdowns while averaging an impressive 4.9 yards per carry.

Gainwell has been just as impactful as a receiving back, hauling in 62 receptions for 410 yards and adding three receiving touchdowns. That gives him seven total touchdowns and 911 total yards from scrimmage, production that places him firmly among the most reliable offensive weapons on the roster. It has been a tremendous season so far, and one that continues to build momentum with each passing week.

Steelers' Kenneth Gainwell Due For Big Time Pay Day After 2025 Season

The 26 year old running back has emerged as a true X-factor for the Steelers' offense, consistently keeping the unit humming and executing on critical downs when it matters most. Rodgers does not speak that highly of just anyone, which makes his words even more meaningful. 

The Steelers have a legitimate star on this roster, and it is becoming harder to ignore by the week. If this level of play continues, Gainwell is setting himself up for a massive payday once the 2025 season concludes.

Is this Steelers team a Super Bowl contender right now with Rodgers and Gainwell? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me. I will respond!

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