A cherished tradition has been revitalized within the Pittsburgh Steelers organization as head coach Mike Tomlin and defensive captain Cam Heyward have welcomed quarterback Aaron Rodgers into their postgame routine. This tradition, which has seen Tomlin and Heyward walk off the field together for some time, took on a new dimension in 2025 following the team’s first victory in New York.
On Friday, Heyward discussed the genesis of this expanded trio. “After we got that first win in New York, me and Mike had talked about it. He was like, ‘Let’s bring this old man along with us,’” Heyward shared, highlighting their motivation to include Rodgers. The goal was to provide him with a feel for what it means to be a Pittsburgh Steeler and to show solidarity on their shared journey: “You don’t have to walk alone.”
Heyward emphasized the collective nature of leadership within the team, stating, “We have a bunch of leaders, but it’s not one guy doing it by itself. It’s a group of guys. It’s a team that really gets the job done.” His comments reflect a culture of unity and support that is foundational to the Steelers’ identity.
The trio will have another opportunity to partake in this postgame tradition following their next challenge against the Houston Texans on Monday night at Acrisure Stadium. As they aim for victory, Steelers fans await to see this new dynamic unfold on the field, further enhancing a tradition deeply embedded in the team’s legacy.