THE APEX TIMES
Steelers in Paris: Rodgers’ “rest, recover, represent Pittsburgh” plan for the France opener
In the run-up to the Steelers’ first-ever regular-season game in France, quarterback Aaron Rodgers and teammates framed their mindset around recovery time, travel preparation, and representing the franchise to a new international audience.
Arriving in Paris a little more than 48 hours before Pittsburgh’s game against the New Orleans Saints, the Steelers’ tone centered on preparation work that starts with rest and recovery, not sightseeing. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers described staying in rhythm at age 42 as something that never has felt like “a job,” and he said this trip is another chance to travel, throw with teammates, and create memories.
Rodgers pointed to the league’s continued expansion overseas, saying it has been enjoyable to be part of the first Steelers game in France. He compared the experience to last year’s Ireland trip, when Pittsburgh won in Dublin, and tied the moment to both football and the larger context of the NFL’s international footprint.
Wide receiver DK Metcalf, who was Rodgers’ top target in Dublin a year ago, said international play also matters from a development standpoint. He described the France opportunity as a chance for players to see “another side of the world,” and he approached the trip as both a football responsibility and a broader first-time experience for many.
The Steelers also used the media moment to emphasize how they’re managing the environment and routines that come with international travel. Outside linebacker T.J. Watt said sleep differed from last year’s flight, when he needed a nap, and this time he focused on hydration and fueling; he also framed the Paris crowd as a unique challenge after Ireland provided more Steelers fans.
Pittsburgh’s lineup-building and leadership message came through in the comments from several long-tenured and frequently used pieces: Cam Heyward, an organization constant who has experienced all three Steelers international games, called Paris “very special” and said the Steelers cannot treat it like a normal contest. Tight end Pat Freiermuth and running back Jaylen Warren both highlighted the importance of getting to bed early and staying focused on winning.
On the field, the Steelers project consistency through familiar personalities while leaving room for the game to feel different abroad. Watt said his offseason-friendly “environment” focus is about performing to the standard no matter where fans show up, and he described Paris as a place the Steelers are showcasing themselves to a potentially new audience.
Why It Matters
- This game is the Steelers’ first trip for a regular-season opponent in France, making fan dispersion and atmosphere a meaningful variable.
- For a veteran core, the emphasis on recovery and routine indicates a preparation approach built for long-distance travel and quick turnarounds.
- Rodgers and Metcalf’s comments connect the international stage to player development and visibility beyond the usual U.S. audience.
- Heyward’s reference to the franchise’s past overseas appearances frames Paris as a leadership test for players who have already experienced the international spotlight before.
Sources
Key Facts
- The Steelers arrived in Paris about 48 hours before playing the New Orleans Saints in an international game for the NFL.
- Quarterback Aaron Rodgers said he continues to play without it feeling like a job, describing the routine as both travel and football.
- Rodgers and Metcalf referenced the previous Steelers international win in Dublin from last season, with Metcalf highlighting what international play can mean for first-time players.
- Outside linebacker T.J. Watt said his travel approach included better sleep than last year and a focus on hydration and fueling.
- Defensive lineman Cam Heyward, who has played in all three Steelers international games in franchise history, said Paris is “very special” and should not be treated like a normal game.