With the 2025 NFL Draft fast approaching, the Pittsburgh Steelers are under increasing pressure to solidify their quarterback plans – and all signs are pointing toward one name: Aaron Rodgers.
After fielding Russell Wilson and Justin Fields in a productive 2024 regular season, the Steelers now find themselves without a clear starter.
Mason Rudolph remains on the roster, but head coach Mike Tomlin and the front office have made it clear they are seeking more competition – ideally a veteran “win-now” presence under center.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the long wait for Rodgers’ decision could be nearing an end.
“Several Steelers people, including Art Rooney himself, talk about the positive momentum toward a deal between the Steelers and Aaron Rodgers,” Rapoport said. “Basically, saying that he thinks it’s going in the right direction. [Rooney] wanted a decision sooner rather than later. He’s not impatient but eventually he will be.”
Rodgers has yet to make a formal announcement about his future, but interest from Pittsburgh appears to be strong and consistent throughout the organization.
“Mike Tomlin, Omar Khan, all said the same thing,” Rapoport added. “They would love him, they would welcome him, they want him. They have not put a deadline on it yet and they wait.”
While there has been speculation about Rodgers potentially considering other teams, Rapoport shut down that narrative.
“The Minnesota Vikings were very clear that Aaron Rodgers, as of right now, not an option for them,” Rapoport continued. “They are moving full speed ahead with J.J. McCarthy. There are no other spots. So if Aaron Rodgers is going to play football in 2025, it is going to be for the Pittsburgh Steelers.”
The four-time MVP was released by the New York Jets earlier this offseason. Now, with his future in limbo, time is running out to make a decision that could shape the final chapter of his Hall of Fame career.
Many people think Rodgers would “prefer” to join the Vikings – but that ship has most likely sailed.
Rapoport said he wouldn’t be surprised if an announcement comes “in the next couple of weeks,” aligning with the Steelers’ need to clarify their draft strategy.
If Rodgers remains undecided as April wears on, Pittsburgh may be forced to pivot and select a quarterback during the draft. (They may do so anyways.)
For now, however, the Steelers remain patient, with top decision-makers still holding out hope for a deal.
Rodgers, meanwhile, faces a narrowing window. As Rapoport put it: “If Aaron Rodgers wants to play in 2025, it’s going to be for the Pittsburgh Steelers.”
What are your thoughts on the Rodgers situation? … Do you think we’re nearing an official announcement – potentially at Pat McAfee’s live event tomorrow???
