Aaron Rodgers has a new familiar target in Pittsburgh. On Thursday, the Steelers signed veteran tight end Robert Tonyan to a one-year contract after a successful minicamp tryout.
What happened?
The Steelers added Tonyan to their pass-catching group, which already includes Michael Pittman Jr., DK Metcalf, and Pat Freiermuth.
Tonyan previously played with Rodgers in Green Bay, where he emerged as one of Rodgers' most trusted red-zone weapons during the 2020 season.
Why it matters for Aaron Rodgers
In 2020, Tonyan caught 52 passes on 59 targets for 586 yards and 11 touchdowns, tying Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce for the league lead among tight ends.
This chemistry with Rodgers became a major part of the Packers' offense, and now Tonyan joins Rodgers in Pittsburgh.
What comes next?
Tonyan will likely slot in behind Freiermuth and Washington, providing valuable insurance if injuries strike.
He offers Mike McCarthy, the Steelers' new head coach, another veteran who already understands many of the offensive concepts being installed.
The Steelers' signing of Tonyan adds depth to their receiving corps, which was headlined by Michael Pittman Jr., DK Metcalf, and Roman Wilson.
Tonyan's experience with Rodgers will be valuable as the Steelers push for a deep playoff run.
On Thursday, ESPN's Brooke Pryor reported that Pittsburgh had officially agreed to the one-year contract with Tonyan.
Tonyan caught just one pass during his 17-game stint with the Kansas City Chiefs last season.
He has bounced between four teams over the last three years, but prior to that, he enjoyed career years catching passes from Rodgers in Green Bay.
Tonyan originally entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent out of Indiana State in 2017.
After a brief stint with the Detroit Lions, he landed on the Green Bay Packers' practice squad for the final four games of the 2017 season.
In Pittsburgh, Tonyan will have the opportunity to reunite with Rodgers and contribute to the Steelers' offense.
The signing of Tonyan is a significant move for the Steelers, who are looking to make a deep playoff run.
Tonyan's chemistry with Rodgers will be a key factor in the Steelers' success this season.
The Steelers' pass-catching group just got a little deeper with the addition of Tonyan.
Tonyan's experience and chemistry with Rodgers make him a valuable addition to the Steelers' roster.