Former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Charlie Batch thinks the conversation around Aaron Rodgers’ return has gotten way off track — and he’s calling out the critics who, in his view, are ignoring the most important part of the story.
In a recent interview with TMZ, Batch said the narrative around Rodgers has been dominated by the Steelers’ playoff loss to Houston, not the full season of production that convinced Pittsburgh to bring the 43‑year‑old quarterback back for one final run. Batch’s message was blunt: the haters are missing the point.
Batch: Rodgers’ Pittsburgh Steelers Season Was Far Better Than People Remember
Batch reminded fans that Rodgers quietly put together a strong 2025 campaign:
- 3,322 passing yards
- 24 touchdowns
- 7 interceptions
Those numbers, Batch argued, were far better than what most Steelers fans expected when Rodgers arrived.
“People forget that,” Batch said. “They look at the end result… but when you look at the overall season, it far exceeded anything else anybody expected.”
Batch believes that’s exactly why the Steelers wanted to run it back with Rodgers — because the full body of work was solid, even if the playoff exit left a sour taste.
The McCarthy Factor: A Huge Boost for Rodgers
Batch also pointed to Rodgers’ reunion with Mike McCarthy, his longtime head coach in Green Bay, as a major reason for optimism.
He said Rodgers essentially has a “PhD” in McCarthy’s offense — a system he mastered during their 18 years together, winning four MVP awards along the way. Batch emphasized that even though Rodgers skipped much of the offseason program, he’s still “far ahead of everybody else” mentally because of that familiarity.
What the Steelers Need From Rodgers in 2026
Batch isn’t pretending Rodgers is still the MVP version of himself. He acknowledged the physical decline — less mobility, less arm pop — but said Pittsburgh doesn’t need a superhero.
They just need a capable, steady starter.
And with:
- A deeper wide receiver group
- A strong RB duo in Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle
- Tight ends Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington
- An improved offensive line
…Rodgers is stepping into one of the most balanced offenses he’s had in years.
If he plays within himself, Batch believes the Steelers can be one of the AFC’s most productive units.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened with Charlie Batch?
Charlie Batch defending the decision of the Pittsburgh Steelers to re-sign Aaron Rodgers.
Why is Aaron Rodgers trending?
Rodgers signed a one-year deal with the team and revealed this will be his last season.
The Bottom Line
Charlie Batch isn’t buying the doom‑and‑gloom takes about Aaron Rodgers. He thinks critics are ignoring the full picture — a solid 2025 season, a perfect scheme fit, and a roster built to support him.
Rodgers may not be the MVP version of old, but Batch believes he’s still good enough to win with. And in Pittsburgh, that’s all they need.
