Rodgers to the Steelers? Bold Move Divides Fans and Experts Alike
In a move that’s generating massive buzz and sparking intense debate, the Pittsburgh Steelers are rumored to be aggressively pursuing quarterback Aaron Rodgers for what’s being described as a “ridiculous price.” The potential acquisition of the four-time MVP has ignited passionate discussions about whether this is a stroke of genius or a disastrous overreach for the Steel City.
**Rodgers Available: A Steelers Solution?**
With the New York Jets officially announcing their plans to move on from Rodgers[1], the Steelers have emerged as a potential landing spot. The move would fill a glaring quarterback vacancy for Pittsburgh[1]. The 41-year-old Rodgers, despite a shortened and rocky tenure with the Jets, could provide a significant upgrade over current options, offering the “best season of quarterback play in the post-Roethlisberger years”[2].
However, acquiring Rodgers comes with baggage. As Brooke Pryor put it, signing Rodgers isn’t just getting a quarterback, but “the Aaron Rodgers Multiverse”[2]. This could potentially mean having to sign players like Davante Adams and Allen Lazard[2].
**A Polarizing Figure:**
The idea of Rodgers in the black and gold is already proving divisive. Some within the Steelers organization are expressing reservations. Safety DeShon Elliott made his feelings clear, stating Rodgers should be “at the retirement home”[3][4].
Elliott’s sentiment reflects concerns about Rodgers’ age and whether he fits the Steelers’ long-term vision[3][4]. As one team source said, there’s “no need to have an older quarterback who’s overpaid and doesn’t show signs of being all in”[4].
**The Price is Wrong?**
While the exact details remain undisclosed, reports suggest that acquiring Rodgers would require a substantial financial commitment from the Steelers. This has led to concerns about the team’s ability to address other needs and maintain flexibility[4].
The Jets will incur a $49 million dead cap by cutting ties with Rodgers[1], who will be designated as a post-June 1 release. This may affect the Steelers’ decision to pursue him.
**What’s Next?**
For now, the Steelers are keeping their options open[5]. While some reports suggest the Steelers may be interested in Rodgers if he lowers his contract demands[5], others claim that the team isn’t interested[4]. The Steelers’ focus likely remains on trying to come to an agreement with Justin Fields or Russell Wilson[1].
Rodgers’ future remains uncertain. There’s also a chance he doesn’t play at all in 2025, as Rodgers himself has not ruled out retirement[5].
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Pittsburgh to see if they ultimately decide to make a bold move for Aaron Rodgers. Whether it proves to be a masterstroke or a monumental mistake remains to be seen.