The Pittsburgh Steelers have announced a series of roster moves that include the re-signing of quarterback Aaron Rodgers and the addition of six undrafted free agents, according to multiple sources. Rodgers returns on a one-year deal. Reuniting with coach Mike McCarthy, while the team continues to build depth through college talent.

Re-Signing of Aaron Rodgers

Rodgers’ return to the Steelers reunites him with head coach Mike McCarthy, a partnership that previously led to a Super Bowl win in 2011 with the Green Bay Packers. The move was confirmed without any quotes from Rodgers, McCarthy, or team executives. Instead, Tom Arth, the Steelers’ quarterbacks coach, provided insight into Rodgers’ mindset.

“He’s extremely focused and locked in,” Arth said. “He’s such a competitive player, but he has so much fun playing the game. And that’s what I really enjoy about Aaron. He loves playing this game. He plays the game like he’s still 10 years old running around in the backyard. At the same time, he’s got this ferocious competitive spirit that obviously helped push him to the heights that he’s reached. His football IQ is off the charts.”

For the Steelers, there were few viable options at quarterback, and for Rodgers, the decision was clear. “There were no other options to be a starting quarterback,” the report noted.

UDFA Additions Highlight Team’s Strategy

Along with officially signing defensive back Devan Boykin, tight end Lake McRee, defensive lineman Kevin Jobity Jr., and kicker Laith Marjan, the Steelers also added Arizona State tight end Chamon Metayer and Missouri linebacker Daylan Carnell, according to Sports Illustrated. This brings the team’s UDFA class to six players, with more potential signings expected in the coming weeks.

Metayer began his collegiate career at Cincinnati, where he recorded one catch for 32 yards across six games in 2022. In 2023, he improved to 258 yards and five touchdowns on 23 receptions. He transferred to Arizona State ahead of the 2024 campaign and played alongside Steelers first-round pick Max Iheanachor. Metayer appeared in 14 games for the Sun Devils and finished with 306 yards and five touchdowns on 32 catches. In his most recent season, he totaled 375 yards and four touchdowns on 38 receptions in 12 games.

Carnell, meanwhile, had a strong collegiate career at Missouri. In 2021, he recorded three tackles in five games. His performance improved in 2022 with 29 tackles, three interceptions, and two fumble recoveries in 13 games. In 2023, he recorded 51 tackles, three sacks, two forced fumbles, and one interception in 13 games.

Team Building in the Offseason

The Steelers’ moves reflect an aggressive approach to building depth and flexibility as the season approaches. The re-signing of Rodgers, a proven NFL quarterback, brings stability to the position, while the UDFA additions provide affordable options to compete for roster spots and contribute to the practice squad.

Metayer, at 6-foot-5, is a red-zone threat and a developing blocker, making him a flexible addition. Carnell’s experience as a pass rusher and ball-hawk further strengthens the linebacker corps.

As the Steelers continue their offseason preparations, the focus remains on building a competitive roster capable of challenging in the AFC. With Rodgers’ return and the infusion of young talent, the team appears to be taking a multi-pronged approach to success.