Aaron Rodgers has played in the NFL for 22 years, but the Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback said the flight home from Paris after Sunday's win over the New Orleans Saints was unlike anything he had experienced before.
“That was probably the most fun I’ve had on a plane ride home from a game in my 22 years,” Rodgers said.
The Steelers celebrated their 16-10 victory with music, food, ice cream, and a memorable photo featuring Rodgers and veteran defensive lineman Cam Heyward. Rodgers posed with sunglasses and gold chains around his neck, giving teammates a chance to celebrate the win together after their trip to France.
Backup quarterback Mason Rudolph took the picture, although wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling suggested Rudolph had come up with the idea. Rudolph played down that claim but said the team enjoyed the long flight home.
“It was a great time,” Rudolph said Wednesday. “The crew was awesome for us. Had some food and some ice cream. We had the speakers rolling in the back, so the music was going, and so just great memories.”
Several teammates, including Keeanu Benton, Darnell Washington and Daylen Everette, contributed to the chain-filled look. Rudolph said Rodgers was happy to participate in the fun.
Article Continues Below“It was nice to see him act a little younger — a little bit,” Rudolph joked.
Head coach Mike McCarthy also praised the team's chemistry after the international trip.
The victory improved Pittsburgh's record to 5-2 and extended its winning streak to three games. Rodgers threw for 212 yards and a touchdown against New Orleans, while Jaylen Warren rushed for 101 yards. The defense held the Saints to 10 points.