Aaron Rodgers nears Steelers move but Pittsburgh may have waited too long to seal the deal
Aaron Rodgers ready to choose Steelers as next team but timing may ruin Pittsburgh's chances (Getty Images)
As NFL fans brace for what feels like a defining chapter in the twilight of Aaron Rodgers' career, all eyes are on the Pittsburgh Steelers. While no official contract has been signed, the consensus among insiders leans heavily toward one outcome—Rodgers suiting up in black and gold this season.
And if Friday's episode of The Pat McAfee Show is anything to go by, that sentiment is quickly turning into certainty.
Steelers could land Aaron Rodgers soon but a crucial delay might cost them everything
NFL insider Ian Rapoport appeared on the show and reaffirmed his belief that Aaron Rodgers' next destination is Pittsburgh. 'I will say it again. I will be surprised if it's not Aaron Rodgers... To me, that is what makes sense,' Rapoport declared, pointing out the Steelers' cautious but intentional handling of the situation.
They haven't made any splashy quarterback moves, and their silence speaks volumes.
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The Steelers are, by all accounts, treating Rodgers with the deference of a legend. They're giving him space, allowing him time, and offering the freedom to decide on his own terms. 'There really is a ton of time before the season starts,' Rapoport added. 'So, there's some time.'
That time, however, may be running out. The next milestone in the Steelers' offseason calendar is mandatory minicamp, slated for June 10–12.
While veteran quarterbacks often delay arrivals—Brett Favre famously joined the Vikings just before training camp—there's a growing sense of urgency for a definitive answer.
Rodgers himself has only vaguely acknowledged the situation, citing personal matters, including health battles within his close circle. Yet, he recently teased fans by suggesting he 'might play against the Chicago Bears,' a cryptic statement that hinted more at intent than commitment.
Is waiting for Aaron Rodgers setting the Pittsburgh Steelers back? | SPEAK
Still, his recent trajectory has left fans and franchises alike uncertain. Rodgers' last season in Green Bay ended in disappointment, followed by a Jets stint that started with a torn Achilles just four plays in. Despite the buzz, his return to elite form remains a big question mark.
Tom Pelissero of NFL Network recently voiced concerns about how long the Steelers are willing to wait. 'There is gonna come a time where there is so much time lost, does it make sense for the Steelers...
There's all these signs that he's coming, but he has not affirmatively said, 'Hey, June 9th, book me the ticket.'' That hesitation is starting to gnaw at a franchise not known for playing games in the offseason.
At 41, Rodgers is no longer a long-term investment. But his star power, leadership, and playoff experience offer the kind of upside Pittsburgh could use to ignite a new era. The bigger question now isn't whether Rodgers will join the Steelers—it's whether both sides are ready to commit before the clock runs out.
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