“He's a bad man”: Stephen A. Smith defends aging Aaron Rodgers, takes brutal shot at Kirk Cousins

NFL commentator Stephen A. Smith consistently champions veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, even as Rodgers' career nears its end. Smith lauded Rodgers' dominant 2020 MVP season. Now, with Rodgers (41years) potentially joining the Steelers, Smith dismisses Kirk Cousins as a viable alternative, subtly advocating for Rodgers despite his recent struggles.Despite a recent underwhelming two-year period with the New York Jets, veteran NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers, now 41, continues to garner high praise from prominent football analyst Stephen A. Smith. Smith's admiration for Rodgers stems from the quarterback's consistent elite performances throughout his career.One memorable instance of Smith's commendation occurred in September 2020 on ESPN’s "First Take." Smith, reflecting on a game where the Green Bay Packers triumphed over the Minnesota Vikings with a 43-34 score, highlighted Rodgers' exceptional play. He acknowledged the Vikings' vulnerable and inexperienced cornerback unit, noting that veterans like Xavier Rhodes, Trae Waynes, and Mackensie Alexander had been replaced by rookies such as Cameron Dantzler, who were still adapting to the professional level.“Well, they didn't prove much because they were going against a rookie cornerback and (Cameron) Dantzler… I believe that's his name, from Minnesota… Now that you got a couple of the more experienced guys that are no longer there, including Xavier Rose and others, the fact is you're in Minnesota. You're relying on rookie corners and Aaron Rodgers exploited them. No question about it, but it doesn't take away from the fact he's a bad man.”Stephen A. Smith lauded Rodgers' unparalleled talent, asserting, “In the end, Aaron Rodgers making throws that pretty much only he and maybe Patrick Mahomes can make, just reminding everybody of how elite he is, how special he is, and how much he still has left in his arsenal.” Rodgers' dominant performance, including four touchdowns, against Minnesota's less-experienced defense in September 2020 directly preceded his third NFL MVP award, affirming Smith's high regard for his enduring capabilities.As of 2025, Aaron Rodgers' NFL future is hazy, with a potential move to the Pittsburgh Steelers unverified. The Steelers are eyeing Kirk Cousins as a backup plan, but Stephen A. Smith vehemently opposes this, publicly questioning Cousins' recent struggles: “You mean Kirk Cousins, who threw nine interceptions and one touchdown over the last five games? You mean that Kirk Cousins?”Smith's dismissive remarks about Cousins can be interpreted as an implicit endorsement for Rodgers, suggesting he still believes the 41-year-old signal-caller, who has not yet confirmed his retirement, is the superior choice. This highlights Smith's continued advocacy for Rodgers in the evolving landscape of NFL quarterback prospects.Also Read: “Stupid a** fans”: Tyreek Hill unleashes disturbing rant on Buffalo fans, claims they have brain damageThis ongoing dynamic begs the question: Can Rodgers defy time and expectations yet again, or will Smith's steadfast belief ultimately be challenged by the inevitable march of age?