Rodgers takes hands-on role as Steelers open season on the road

Aaron Rodgers has quickly assumed a demanding, hands-on leadership role with the Pittsburgh Steelers as the team prepares to open its season on the road next week against his former franchise, but his first months in Pittsburgh have been marked by both praise from teammates and an on-field snub that underscores lingering tensions with a former Steeler. The veteran quarterback has been credited with raising accountability in meetings and practices even as the team placed rookie Will Howard on injured reserve this month with a broken finger, a move that increases pressure on Rodgers to produce immediately.

Teammates and staff say Rodgers has been intentional about teaching and holding players to high standards. "He gets on everybody," Howard said on a national sports talk show, praising Rodgers for expecting excellence and for being "a great leader." Cornerback Jalen Ramsey added that he respects Rodgers after watching how he operates in practice, and tight end Jonnu Smith, who has worked before with the Steelers offensive coordinator, said he trusts the coach's vision and expects Rodgers to help maximize the offense.

Coaches moved quickly to prepare the offense for Rodgers'...