Aaron Rodgers criticizes the NFL preseason, saying it “isn’t real football.” The Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback also appears unimpressed by the league’s preseason format and is not eager about the upcoming matchup associated with his former team, the Steelers’ opponent in a preseason opener in Pittsburgh.
Both outlets frame Rodgers’ comments as sharply dismissive of the value of preseason games. While coverage emphasizes his tone and wording—particularly the “not real football” characterization—neither source provides extensive additional detail on the specific reasons behind his assessment or on any direct response from the league or coaches. The reporting focuses mainly on what Rodgers says rather than broader debate.
In terms of context, the articles treat the preseason as a setting where Rodgers is expressing dissatisfaction publicly. The CBS Sports piece adds that the remarks relate to his former-team connection tied to the preseason opener, while the other source presents the criticism more generally, without additional matchup emphasis.