The Pittsburgh Steelers might be preparing to make a move that will leave fans absolutely stunned. Mike Florio took to his YouTube channel to break down the latest buzz surrounding Pittsburgh and a potential deal for quarterback Aaron Rodgers. What he revealed wasn’t just surprising—it was downright jaw-dropping and a bit unsettling for Steelers fans to hear.
AP Photo / Frank Franklin II
Former New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers nods to acknowledge someone speaking in his direction.
According to Florio, the Steelers could be looking at a price tag that seems almost impossible to justify. While Pittsburgh has never been known to spend recklessly at any position, this rumored number is enough to make even the most die-hard fans do a double take. Florio didn’t hold back in explaining just how massive this potential deal could be.
Steelers fans might want to brace themselves before hearing the full details. When Florio laid out the numbers, it became clear that Pittsburgh could be making a move unlike anything they’ve done before. Whether it’s genius or insanity, one thing is certain—this is the kind of news that will have the entire fanbase talking.
"As of right now, here is my understanding of what is going on," Florio said. "He [Rodgers] wants to play for the Steelers. He probably will end up in Pittsburgh. The Giants can still snatch him by making the financial offer that isn’t in the same ballpark as where the Steelers are."
The first thing Florio pointed out is that the Steelers aren’t the only team with serious interest in the 41-year-old quarterback. The New York Giants could swoop in and steal him in a bidding war, making the situation even more intense.
New York Jets
Jets' Aaron Rodgers speaks to the media after loss to Steelers.
Regardless of how it plays out, the potential price tag is far higher than most Steelers fans would be comfortable with.
"I don’t know where the Steelers are going to be," Florio said. "Earlier today, we had a semi-educated guess of two years for $90 million with $40 million guaranteed at signing. Sounds like a lot, but pull up the contracts. Pull up the average annual value of some of the highest-paid quarterbacks and ask yourselves if they compare."
The first thing that needs to be made clear about Florio’s take is that his estimate is just that—an educated guess. This number is likely based on what he’s hearing, but it’s not the exact figure. However, the fact that Florio is even floating such a high price tag suggests he understands just how expensive Rodgers is about to be.
Rodgers didn’t have a bad 2024 season. In fact, he played well, but he didn’t help the New York Jets win games. From a production standpoint, Rodgers threw for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions—solid numbers, but not necessarily game-changing. As Florio urged his viewers to do, ask yourself: Is that level of production really worth $45 million per year?
Steelers Close To Making A Massive Investment In Aaron Rodgers
Florio seemed to push back on the idea that Rodgers is overpaid, hinting that he still believes in the veteran quarterback. While some might scoff at the price, Florio’s stance suggests that Rodgers still has plenty left in the tank—enough to justify the massive investment.
If the Steelers actually paid Rodgers $45 million a year or anything close to it, the majority of fans wouldn’t be happy. That doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a bad move or one they shouldn’t make—but it would be wildly unpopular, and it’s easy to see why. Rodgers brings a media circus like no other, as he remains one of the most polarizing figures in the NFL.
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Former New York Jets QB Aaron Rodgers throwing a ball in pre game warmups before an away game.
Beyond the distractions, the price tag alone is staggering. He’s 41 years old, coming off a serious Achilles injury, and would instantly become one of the most expensive quarterbacks in the league. No matter how talented he is, that kind of investment feels reckless for a franchise that prides itself on stability and smart roster decisions.
The Steelers are desperate for a solution at quarterback, and their actions suggest they are willing to take a massive swing. Investing in a four-time MVP and Super Bowl champion at this stage of his career signals just how far they are willing to go to get back in the hunt for the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
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