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USA Today
5 hours ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Aaron Rodgers 'has not affirmatively' told the Steelers he's signing
Aaron Rodgers 'has not affirmatively' told the Steelers he's signing Show Caption Hide Caption Former NFL QB Alex Smith weighs in on the Aaron Rodgers situation Alex Smith explains why Aaron Rodgers should return for at least one more year. Sports Seriously Aaron Rodgers is an expert in playing the waiting game. The headline-making quarterback possesses the remarkable talent of making news, whether he speaks or not. In fact, Rodgers is generating more interest this offseason because of his silence rather than anything else. That remains a constant theme for the four-time NFL MVP, who hasn't been known for his play on the field in recent years, but rather everything that comes with the experience off it. It was believed Rodgers would sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers after the New York Jets released the future Hall of Fame signal caller. As the clock continues to tick, it's anyone's guess whether he plays for Pittsburgh or announces his retirement. During an appearance on "The Rich Eisen Show" on Friday, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero spoke about Rodgers' immediate NFL future and why there is still a good bit of uncertainty. "I have been told that he has not affirmatively told the Steelers that he's coming," Pelissero said. "There's all these signs that he's coming, but he's not affirmatively said, 'Hey, June 9, book me the ticket, I'm coming in and I'm gonna join this team.' That has not happened as of this point." Pelissero added that the Steelers are operating under the assumption that Rodgers will eventually sign, but he pondered the idea that the quarterback could change his mind given his unique nature. Options have dried up on the open market for Pittsburgh, who put all their eggs in the Rodgers basket this offseason. Russell Wilson left to sign with the New York Giants and Justin Fields inked a deal with the Jets, essentially emptying their quarterback room from last season. Kirk Cousins figures to be the other potential option, but the insider pointed out that the price for the Atlanta Falcons' backup remains too high and that the Steelers are committed to the idea of Rodgers right now. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler said on Saturday that the Steelers are just hanging around right now. "When I talk to people with the team they say the same thing, that they have had contact with Aaron Rodgers," Fowler said. "They've remained optimistic that he will be a Steeler, but there is just nothing fast and firm yet on him signing with the team. So they continue to develop Mason Rudolph and Will Howard in OTAs." Fowler noted that the situation has been unpredictable. Steelers' mandatory minicamp is slated for June 10-12, leaving little margin for any bumps in the road going forward. Rodgers previously visited the Steelers' facility, but has offered little certainty surrounding the situation in his few public appearances. He said on "The Pat McAfee Show" in April that retirement was still a possibility and that he was dealing with some personal things behind the scenes. Rodgers also made an appearance on "The Joe Rogan Experience" but didn't discuss anything football related. More recently, he offered up some information on the 'You Know What I Mean' podcast, saying he wouldn't play for the Chicago Bears, but there is a team that makes a trip to the Windy City next season. As the season quickly approaches and the offseason begins to fade, the Steelers are stuck in a holding pattern. After all, only Rodgers knows what will happen and what his future holds.
USA Today
13 hours ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Mark Kaboly denies trade rumors: 'Steelers aren't interested in Dolphins TE Jonnu Smith'
Mark Kaboly denies trade rumors: 'Steelers aren't interested in Dolphins TE Jonnu Smith' Pittsburgh trade buzz may be starting to cool off, as longtime sportswriter and Steelers correspondent for The Pat McAfee Show threw cold water on the Jonnu Smith speculation. Insider Adam Schefter broke the news on Thursday that the Steelers and Dolphins had been in trade talks regarding the Pro Bowl tight end, as Smith is seeking a restructured deal. Andrew Fillipponi of 93.7 The Fan took to social media to aggregate Kaboly's comments on the trade rumors: "The Steelers aren't interested at all." Kaboly then took it a step further by explaining why he believes the Steelers-Dolphins trade rumors are false: "I may have to file that Smith interest under [fake news reports], even though the connections with offensive coordinator Arthur Smith — who coached Smith at Tennessee and Atlanta and is a big fan of his play — bring some believability to it all. Forget that the Steelers already have a legitimate TE1 in Freiermuth, but the way Darnell Washington has asserted himself in the passing game through three offseason practices can't be dismissed." It seemed odd for the Steelers to target another tight end while already having two solid options at the position — especially with a glaring need for a bona fide WR2. For up-to-date Steelers coverage, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.
Time of India
18 hours ago
- Sport
- Time of India
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. Why Isn't Aaron Rodgers At Steelers OTAs? Well... | Pat McAfee Show 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. Also Read: Taylor Swift just bought her masters back—Travis Kelce's reaction proves he's her biggest supporter yet
USA Today
a day ago
- Sport
- USA Today
NFL insider Ian Rapoport gives latest on Jonnu Smith trade rumors: 'He wants a lot'
NFL insider Ian Rapoport gives latest on Jonnu Smith trade rumors: 'He wants a lot' Jonnu Smith is angling for a new contract, but NFL Network's Ian Rapoport isn't convinced that means he'll be traded by the Miami Dolphins anytime soon. "He is actually a part of what the Dolphins want to do," Rapoport said of Smith in a Friday appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. "It feels to me like he wants more money, but would like to stay [in Miami]. I know he wants a lot. We'll see what they end up doing. "But going back to the [Jalen] Ramsey thing. If they are able to trade Jalen Ramsey, that's $21 million -- some of the $21 million will come off the books, depending on how much they pay. Trading Ramsey might help Jonnu Smith get the contract he wants, as well." Smith, 29, earned Pro Bowl honors in 2024 after breaking Dolphins franchise records for receptions (88), receiving yards (884), and receiving touchdowns (8) by a tight end. However, he ranks 32nd among tight ends sorted by average salary per year. While nine tight ends are earning at least $12 million per year, Smith is set to play on the second season of a two-year, $8.4 million contract. It's no surprise that Smith wants a sizable pay bump. How high he sets his asking price could be what determines whether or not he's dealt elsewhere.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
NBA rumors: Very positive health updates emerge on Jayson Tatum and Victor Wembanyama's surgery recoveries
A top NBA insider offered up some major updates on both Jayson Tatum and Victor Wembanyama that should excite Boston Celtics and San Antonio Spurs fans. Tatum and Wembanyama are two of the best players in the NBA. And the two All-Stars are positioned to be among the faces of the league in the years ahead. However, there has been recent concern about their health. And if they can continue to play at the elite standard they have set. Advertisement Also Read: NBA games today – Get a look at tonight's NBA playoff schedule In February, Wembanyama was diagnosed with a blood clot in his shoulder and immediately underwent surgery to repair the issue. And avoid what could potentially be a career-ending situation. The hope has been that he can return and be ready for training camp. According to ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania, that now looks like a lock. 'The Spurs fully expect Wemby to be ready to go for the start of training camp,' he revealed on 'The Pat McAfee Show' on Tuesday. Jayson Tatum quickly having surgery a major plus for his recovery? Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum saw his season come to a shocking end in Game 4 of their playoff series against the New York Knicks. The six-time All-Star ruptured his Achilles late in their loss. The injury is one of the most serious in professional sports, and is expected to sideline him for most, if not all, of next season. Advertisement Charania did not claim the original estimates for his return have changed. But there is a new reason for hope. Also on the 'Pat McAfee Show,' the insider revealed that the New York doctor who performed his surgery is the same one who repaired Kevin Durant's Achilles after he also ruptured it in 2019. The future Hall-of-Famer was able to make a full recovery and return to being an elite player. Furthermore, Durant underwent surgery 36 hours after surgery. Tatum scheduled his 12 hours after he went down inside Madison Square Garden. Charania claimed that the surgeon believes that the shorter time could be immensely beneficial in his recovery. It may not mean he can return to the court sooner. But it may be early evidence that the 27-year-old superstar can do just like Durant and get backing to being a 99th percentile talent following such a serious injury. Also Read:: 50 Best NBA players right now: Where do Luka Doncic and Jalen Brunson land in 2025?
