Aaron Rodgers prefers sideline role in preseason opener against Green Bay

Aaron Rodgers, entering his final NFL training camp with the Pittsburgh Steelers, indicated he does not plan to play in the preseason opener against the Green Bay Packers on Thursday. Rodgers stated that preseason games do not represent 'real football,' emphasizing his desire to support younger quarterbacks like Drew Allar and Will Howard from the sidelines. Head coach Mike McCarthy has yet to confirm if Rodgers will take the field, citing the importance of managing player health. Although Rodgers hasn't played in a preseason game for three years, he believes practice is where true growth occurs for the team, noting an optimistic outlook on their progress this summer.

• 6:17 PMYahoo Sports — Aaron Rodgers is leaning into his final year, except when it comes to playing in the preseason