Steelers set deadline for Rodgers, but the quarterback believes he owes no explanation as fans debate his choice
Updated Story:
Aaron Rodgers is running out of time to decide on the Pittsburgh Steelers.
After splitting ways with the New York Jets, the veteran quarterback was pursued by Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin. With the Steelers opting not to draft a passer until picking Ohio State prospect Will Howard in the sixth round, it seems like they have their eyes set on Rodgers, with Mason Rudolph as the presumed starter for now.
But, the 40-year-old's enthusiasm remains questionable. An offer from the Steelers has been on the table since March, but without a signature, it's as good as meaningless. And as the 2025 season preparations gear up, the clock is ticking.
Three-time Pro Bowl QB Matt Hasselbeck believes Rodgers needs to be present when the Steelers begin Organized Team Activities (OTAs) on May 27. "For the Pittsburgh Steelers, I believe that's May 27th. May 27th is the start of Phase Three," Hasselbeck said.
Rodgers, known for picking and choosing his offseason workouts, skipped the Jets' mandatory minicamp in July 2024 and took a vacation to Egypt instead, damaging his relationship with the team. Now, with the Minnesota Vikings ready to let JJ McCarthy have a shot and the New York Giants trading up to add Jaxson Dart, Rodgers' options seem limited—Pittsburgh or retirement.
Aaron Rodgers might need a full offseason program to gel with a new team and rebuild any rust. The Steelers bolstered their wide receiver room by trading for DK Metcalf and have George Pickens. It's unclear if Pickens will stick around if Rodgers isn't under center next season.
With negotiation rumors swirling and no official update from Rodgers, the Steelers faithful are debating whether he owes them anything, considering he’s not under contract yet.
Disclaimer: This is a simulated article rewrite for educational purposes only. The context, tone, and style have been changed, and while enrichment data has been used to provide additional details, it does not represent an actual news story.
Additional Insights:
- Aaron Rodgers reportedly joined a local country club in Pittsburgh to acclimate to the city and demonstrate his commitment to the Steelers[1].
- There's speculation surrounding internal issues among Rodgers’ family and representatives that could delay his decision[2].
- Some fans are concerned that Rodgers' casual approach toward offseason workouts could negatively impact the Steelers' preparation and their chances in the 2025 season[4].
- The Steelers have made it clear that they prefer Rodgers to sign and arrive in time for OTAs to build chemistry with offensive players like George Pickens and T.J. Watt[4].
Sources:
[1] Fowler, J. (2025, May 10). Rodgers works out locally as Steelers talks heat up. ESPN. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/35098232
[2] Moore, N. (2025, May 11). Aaron Rodgers' potential signing with the Steelers: Latest updates, contract details and more. CBS Sports. https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/aaron-rodgers-potential-signing-with-the-steelers-latest-updates-contract-details-and-more/
[4] Maykut, J. (2025, May 13). Stephen A. Smith believes Aaron Rodgers is "scared" to retire. Fox Sports. https://www.foxsports.com/nfl/nfl-news/stephen-a-smith-believes-aaron-rodgers-is-scared-to-retire
- Despite the ticking clock and Aaron Rodgers' uncertainty, rumors suggest that he has joined a local country club in Pittsburgh to acclimate to the city, potentially demonstrating a commitment to the Steelers.
- Some sources speculate that internal issues among Rodgers’ family and representatives could be delaying his decision about joining the Steelers.
- As the Steelers' faithful await Rodgers' signing, some fans are expressing concerns about the potential impact of his casual approach to offseason workouts on the team's preparation for the 2025 season.
- The Steelers have made it clear that they prefer Rodgers to sign and attend Organized Team Activities (OTAs) in May to build chemistry with offensive players like George Pickens and T.J. Watt.
