As we inch closer to the NFL’s schedule release on May 14, all eyes are on Aaron Rodgers and whether he’ll put pen to paper with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Last year, the league showcased the Jets in prime-time slots, highlighting their potential with Rodgers steering the ship. NFL V.P. of Broadcast Planning Mike North had put it candidly, expressing that “the Jets kind of owe us one.” It’s clear that when a marquee player like Rodgers is involved, the league leans into the spotlight, setting up games that everyone wants to catch.
Should Rodgers choose to sign with the Steelers before the big reveal, expect the league to maximize their exposure with a lineup rich in standalone games once again. If he opts for a waiting game, however, one can imagine the schedule shifting to a more subdued approach—potentially featuring Mason Rudolph leading the charge instead.
It’s an intriguing scenario. A couple of seasons ago, North felt comfortable announcing the league’s scheduling moves predicated on the belief that Rodgers would be donning Jets green. Yet, while there’s a strong likelihood he may join the Steelers, it remains just that—a likelihood. The true decision will significantly influence not just Rodgers but the franchise’s overall rhythm. Consider the potential ripple effects: a season’s worth of unusual turnarounds for travel and game timing can be daunting. Team dynamics don’t just hinge on talent; they thrive on routine.
Rodgers has brushed off scheduling discussions in the past. He confidently stated, “I love it,” acknowledging the attention his presence commands. Whether fans are enamored or antagonistic, his gameplay is something they gravitate toward. Back in the last season’s early weeks, it seemed like Rodgers lived for the spotlight—until reality hit, and the Jets finished with a dismal 5-12 record.
The NFL champions competitive integrity, but the reality is that drawing big audiences can outweigh balance when it comes to scheduling. The Steelers have been navigating this delicate tightrope as well, with owner Art Rooney II preferring to limit their prime-time appearances at home. If Rodgers formally joins the Steelers, expect a slew of nighttime matchups and four o’clock games that flip things around for team operations and preparation.
Not to forget, there are plenty of enticing matchups on the Steelers’ docket, with returning rivalries and exciting clashes against franchises like the Ravens, Bengals, and Dolphins. And with international play on the horizon too, it’s a jam-packed calendar that promises to thrill fans.
For now, it all comes down to one fundamental point: as the clock ticks on the schedule release, waiting might just be Rodgers’ best bet. With the offseason workouts starting on May 27, there’s little downside to allowing a few extra weeks before committing. And sometimes, a little patience can prove beneficial in the long game; after all, navigating a tough schedule makes every win even sweeter.
