Rapoport: Steelers "Planned Throwing Session" Signals Aaron Rodgers Move Is Likely Close

The Pittsburgh Steelers have had some uncertainty about their quarterback situation for the 2025 season for quite some time. They do have Mason Rudolph back after one season away with the Tennessee Titans, but few have faith that he could be the starter. The Steelers have been entangled in the saga surrounding 41-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Many Steelers fans have grown tired of this ordeal, but the reality of the situation is that the Steelers likely believe Rodgers is coming to the Steel City, which is why they have made the moves they have.

They have likely had very serious conversations behind the scenes and have built some level of trust that Rodgers will commit to them. Every indication points to Pittsburgh quietly operating under the assumption that a deal is coming together. While nothing is official yet, the organization’s actions suggest they are preparing for Rodgers to take over as their starting quarterback in 2025.

That theory was further proven when it was reported on Monday morning that Rodgers was throwing with new Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf. This was not a casual workout, but a planned session, showing that Rodgers is already building chemistry with a key offensive weapon. 

As the situation continues to unfold, all signs point to the Steelers believing Rodgers will soon be in black and gold. NFL insider Ian Rapoport shared more details about the workout, and what it means for the Steelers, during his appearance on The Pat McAfee Show on Monday.

"This was not a coincidence," Rapoport said. "This was not like Tom Brady running into Matthew Stafford at Yellowstone. This was a planned throwing session. It sounds like it went very well, from my understanding. Rodgers has his process. I think it’s not as fast as people would like."

Many Steelers fans and media personalities have been vocal about their frustrations with the Rodgers saga. Initially, there was outrage that the Steelers were even serious about pursuing him. 

Now, the frustration has shifted to the drawn-out timeline, with fans growing impatient as the 41-year-old quarterback takes his time deciding whether he wants to come to Pittsburgh.

"This is what he needs," Rapoport said. "It might be his last stop; it probably is his last stop. He needs to make sure it’s right. That includes throwing with the newly-acquired star wide receiver for the team… It was at UCLA, it did go well… It seems to me, unless the Vikings do a complete turnaround from what they said publicly, that would be his only spot. So, it feels like a matter of time, but as you know, getting in the head of Aaron Rodgers is difficult. But that’s just my general feeling."

Rodgers has his own process, and he has no interest in rushing it. As Rapoport pointed out, this is a massive decision—not just for his career but for his legacy. While Steelers fans may be eager for a resolution, Rodgers doesn’t owe them anything, and he will take as long as he sees fit before making his choice.

Steelers Fans Need To Relax On Rushing The Rodgers Saga

Steelers fans should take a step back and relax when it comes to the frustration surrounding the timeline of this decision. The Steelers know what they’re doing, and they are not being held hostage by Rodgers. They explored every option and ultimately chose to pursue him. Rodgers is simply going through his process, and every indication suggests that he and the Steelers are on track to form a partnership for the 2025 season.

If it doesn’t happen, it’s really not the end of the world. The Steelers still have Rudolph, and at this point, other options are about the same caliber. They identified Rodgers as the quarterback worth taking a chance on, and now, the deal feels like only a matter of time. Steelers fans should hold off on their frustration until they see how things actually unfold.

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