Aaron Rodgers isn’t happy. For two decades in the NFL, A-Rod has stared down blitzing linebackers, hostile road crowds, and the pressure of fourth-quarter comebacks. But with the Pittsburgh Steelers, one of his biggest battles isn’t against an opponent in pads. Instead of new schemes, teammates, and offensive playbooks, the challenge for Rodgers is against the helmet on his head.

The 4x MVP has always valued familiarity. For years, he wore the Schutt Sports Air XP Q11 model, a helmet as much a part of his identity as his throwing motion. But this year, the NFL officially deemed the model noncompliant with its evolving safety standards. For Rodgers, that meant starting over. Rodgers was quick to voice his discomfort with the new gear at the minicamp. “I can’t stand the helmet.

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