Tom Brady admits Aaron Rodgers isn’t the same quarterback anymore

The Pittsburgh Steelers are enjoying a strong run with Aaron Rodgers as their starting quarterback, winning four straight games, but Tom Brady believes the veteran is no longer the same player who dominated the NFL during the peak of his career.

For the seven-time Super Bowl champion , Rodgers has had to transform his style of play over the years. While he has lost some of his explosiveness when escaping pressure and extending plays, Brady believes the Pittsburgh quarterback has found a new way to remain an effective signal-caller.

During his Tuesday appearance on The Herd with Colin Cowherd , the former New England Patriots quarterback explained how Rodgers has evolved, defended his performance despite his interceptions, and made a strong prediction about the Steelers’ future in the AFC North .

Tom Brady highlights the change in Aaron Rodgers’ game

Brady pointed out that one of the biggest differences between the current version of Rodgers and the one who starred with the Green Bay Packers is his ability to create plays outside of the offensive structure.

“He doesn’t quite have that same elusiveness, and he’s really transitioned to becoming more of a pocket passer. He’s always been an incredible passer of the football, but now that he’s playing from the pocket, he’s totally in control.”

For years, Rodgers was known for his ability to extend plays, escape defensive pressure, and create opportunities when a play appeared to break down. However, that part of his game has declined with age, especially after the Achilles injury that ended his 2023 season with the New York Jets after just four snaps.

The statistics reflect that transformation. Through eight games this season, Rodgers has recorded just 12 rushing attempts for 23 yards . In 16 games with Pittsburgh in 2025 , he totaled 61 rushing yards after posting 107 yards with the Jets in 2024 .

Brady understands that adjustment process well. The legendary quarterback played until he was 45 years old and also relied more on reading defenses, anticipation, and accuracy rather than athletic ability to escape defenders.

Brady defends Rodgers after his six interceptions

Beyond discussing his mobility, Brady also defended Rodgers amid criticism surrounding his turnovers.

“I think he’s got six interceptions this year; five of them have been off the hands of a receiver or a Hail Mary. So he’s making incredible decisions.”

Rodgers has completed 60.8% of his passes for 1,871 yards , 13 touchdowns, and six interceptions in eight starts this season. Brady believes several of those turnovers do not necessarily reflect poor decisions by the quarterback.

One example came in Pittsburgh’s recent 27-6 win over Cleveland , when a pass intended for DK Metcalf bounced off the receiver’s hands and was intercepted by Denzel Ward . Metcalf finished the game with just one reception for four yards on six targets.

Rodgers finished that matchup with 13 completions on 25 attempts for 172 yards , no touchdowns, and one interception. The Steelers made up for the performance with a dominant rushing attack that produced 200 yards, including 143 from Brady defends Rodgers after his six interceptions, along with a defense that recorded eight sacks.

Tom Brady believes Steelers can dominate the AFC North

Although Rodgers no longer has the same mobility he showed during his prime years, Brady believes his football intelligence and decision-making ability are still enough to keep Pittsburgh competitive.

The Steelers improved to 6-2 and moved into sole possession of first place in the AFC North before their bye week. According to Brady, the team has what it takes to stay at the top.

“That’s why that team is in first place in their division, and I don’t see anybody stopping them in that division either,” Brady said.

Pittsburgh will return to action on November 15 against Cincinnati . While Rodgers’ style of play has changed, Brady believes the veteran quarterback still has the tools needed to lead a contender.