A Steelers Depot daily segment. A quick hit of some Pittsburgh Steelers-related stories that may not require a complete article, but nuggets worth mentioning and passing on to you guys.
Your Depot After Dark for Sept. 15.
RODGERS’ MESSAGE TO SMITH
Aaron Rodgers has played in the NFL since 2005. He’s currently the NFL’s oldest player, and he confirmed he’ll retire after this season. Rodgers has had an incredible career. He’ll easily make the Pro Football Hall of Fame one day.
Rodgers has had numerous teammates in his long career. That includes pass rusher Za’Darius Smith, who sacked Rodgers twice in Week 1. The two played together on the Green Bay Packers from 2019-2021, and after Sunday’s game, Rodgers gave Smith his jersey. He also signed it with a nice message, as Carrie_ATL shared on Twitter. It was a sweet gesture from Rodgers.
Aaron Rodgers to Za’Darius Smith: “Z, I enjoyed our time together brother and I love seeing you back in the game! Your energy & smile are contagious my friend! Have a great year!”
They played for the Packers together from 2019-2021. pic.twitter.com/OemmUBsxLq
— Carrie (@Carrie_ATL) September 15, 2026
GRONKOWSKI PRAISES WASHINGTON
Darnell Washington had two catches for 18 yards in Week 1, but he made his presence felt. He laid down a vicious stiff arm on Atlanta Falcons safety Xavier Watts, showing everyone that he’s still very physical despite losing some weight this offseason. It was a big play that helped the Steelers seal their win.
Washington also caught former NFL tight end Rob Gronkowski’s eye. Gronkowski took to Twitter to comment on Washington’s play, saying that he gets excited every time the Steelers tight end touches the ball. Gronkowski is one of the best tight ends ever, so his words are meaningful. Hopefully, Washington continues making plays this season.
FITZPATRICK HURT
Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick was with the Steelers from 2019-2024. While he made a lot of big plays, he was less productive late in his tenure, so the Steelers traded him to the Miami Dolphins last year. Fitzpatrick had a fine season with the Dolphins, breaking up six passes and grabbing one interception.
The Dolphins traded Fitzpatrick to the New York Jets this offseason. He was looking forward to putting together another solid year, but unfortunately, his season is off to a rocky start. NFL insider Jordan Schultz shared on Twitter that Fitzpatrick suffered a groin injury in Week 1 that will keep him out for the next few weeks.
Sources: #Jets S Minkah Fitzpatrick, who suffered a groin injury during Sunday’s win over the Titans, is expected to miss 2–3 weeks.
Fitzpatrick was a major addition to the defense this offseason but played just six snaps on Sunday. pic.twitter.com/0WYknFxicC
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) September 15, 2026
