The New York Jets’ turbulent love story with Aaron Rodgers officially ended on Wednesday when they released the 41-year-old former MVP, making him a free agent. Unsurprisingly, both the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants have expressed interest in his services for the upcoming season.
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In Pittsburgh, however, the news of Rodgers as a potential option has not been met with universal excitement. Many Steelers fans are wary, but NFL analyst Rich Eisen believes Rodgers and the Steelers are a perfect match simply because they need him.
A couple of days back, the Steelers sent a 2025 second-round pick to the Seattle Seahawks for wide receiver DK Metcalf. They gave the WR a five-year, $150 million contract. However, they still don’t know who’s going to be their starting quarterback yet, and their options are dwindling too. Which is exactly why Eisen thinks Rodgers should be Pittsburgh’s top choice.
Rodgers, for his part, is taking his time before making a decision. But if Eisen were in his shoes, he wouldn’t hesitate since he feels Pittsburgh is the best possible landing spot for the veteran QB.
“I heard from the Steelers fans — a lot them saying — we don’t want him. We are the Pittsburgh Steelers. We don’t want him or that’s not a very Steelers-like maneuver. Right now, the way things are currently set up, they need Aaron Rodgers to say yes. It’s that simple. You have a $33 million-a-year wide receiver and no one to throw him the football,” said Eisen.
Pittsburgh’s options are indeed limited. Sam Darnold, Geno Smith, and Daniel Jones have already signed elsewhere. And there’s little enthusiasm for a reunion with Russell Wilson, given his strained relationships within the organization.
Meanwhile, Kirk Cousins’ situation remains uncertain, leaving Rodgers as the best available option. It seems Rodgers himself is eyeing a move to Steel City too.
Does Rodgers want to be a Steeler?
Rodgers has been dropping subtle hints around town, fueling speculation about his next destination. One such clue? A fashion designer currently working with New Era and Lids revealed that the four-time MVP personally requested a Pirates hat from the upcoming Misplaced Series collection of MLB-themed caps.
Of course, this could mean something, or it could be nothing more than fans grasping at straws. When it comes to Rodgers, nothing is ever certain.
The veteran QB is not exactly a media darling, and controversy seems to follow him wherever he goes. That could be one reason the Steelers remain hesitant to fully commit to the idea of bringing Rodgers in.
However, with two talented but immature wide receivers in George Pickens and Metcalf, they need a veteran quarterback who can command the huddle. Additionally, the Steelers are wasting an elite defense by failing to fix their offensive struggles. Signing Rodgers would send a strong message that they’re serious about winning.
If the Steelers are choosing between Kirk Cousins, Russell Wilson, and Rodgers, the four-time MVP seems like the best option. Last season, he played better than both of them. Rodgers may ruffle feathers but will elevate the team too.
But if Pittsburgh prioritizes a drama-free locker room and stability, Cousins or Wilson could be safer choices.
