The Pittsburgh Steelers have been playing the waiting game when it comes to the quarterback position. The team has been interested in veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers ever since the first week of free agency, and a lot of signs have pointed towards him signing with Pittsburgh. He had a throwing session with newly acquired wide receiver DK Metcalf, and he went on an extensive visit to the team's facility in Pittsburgh.
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Aaron Rodgers during a game overseas in the 2024 season with the New York Jets.
Rodgers has been taking his time making his decision as retirement seems to still be on the table for the four-time MVP. Pittsburgh seems to be the only realistic landing spot if the quarterback wants to be a starter, but as each day goes by, it seems more and more bleak that him becoming a Steeler will happen. There has been speculation on how much Pittsburgh would have to spend, and Rodgers clarified his contract demands on The Pat McAfee Show on Thursday.
"I told every single one of the teams, it ain't about money," Rodgers said. "I said I'll play for $10 million. Whatever."
The quarterback also clarified that he was not asking for a multi-year deal or making any sort of extreme demands contractually. It has been said for weeks that the details of a contract have not been the hold up with the Super Bowl Champion signing with the Steelers, and that seems to be true after Rodgers' comments.
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Former New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers speaking to members of the media.
Steelers Not Being Held Hostage By Aaron Rodgers
There has been some speculation that Rodgers is essentially holding Pittsburgh hostage by not signing, but that is not the case. If the quarterback was demanding a large amount of money it may be an issue, but $10 million is not going to restrain the organization at all. It gives Pittsburgh freedom to make other roster moves. People believed Rodgers' potential contract was playing a factor in the team's negotiations with star outside linebacker TJ Watt, but that doesn't seem to be the case after Rodgers' comments.
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Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin shakes hands with former New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers after a game as quarterback Russell Wilson looks on in the background.
Rodgers doesn't sound to be making his decision anytime soon, even with the 2025 NFL Draft quickly approaching. Pittsburgh should not be banking on the quarterback suiting up in the black and gold, but it is still in the realm of possibility. This is the first time Rodgers has spoken out about his free agency, although it didn't provide much clarity for the fan base in Pittsburgh.
Does this make you more optimistic about Rodgers signing with Pittsburgh? Let us know in the comments below!
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