The Pittsburgh Steelers have been linked to several quarterbacks this offseason, and much like the start of 2024, a number of curveballs are expected. Fans are eager to see which direction the team will take at quarterback. Currently, the leading candidates are Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Fields presents a cheaper, more exciting option, while Wilson, the veteran, is seasoned but significantly pricier.
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Steelers' Russell Wilson and Justin Fields smile during Monday Night Football.
Beyond Wilson and Fields, the Steelers have also been connected to two other veteran quarterbacks. Matthew Stafford, who has hinted at a potential trade from the Los Angeles Rams, has naturally been linked to Pittsburgh. While Stafford might be a bit expensive for the Steelers, this option seems to be gaining traction. Another possibility, though not as popular among fans, is the Steelers signing former New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers for the veteran minimum.
Rodgers had a solid 2024 season in terms of production, but the Jets' struggles, including a lack of protection, prevented him from performing at the MVP level he's known for. Despite the team’s challenges, Rodgers still had moments that reminded everyone why he's considered one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. Even at 41, Rodgers may have something left to offer Mike Tomlin and Pittsburgh. On Wednesday, Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk shared new information about Rodgers that could have Steelers fans breathing a sigh of relief.
"From Rodgers’ perspective, the interest in the Giants (if he’s indeed interested in the Giants), suggests he’s not generating interest from contenders like the Steelers," Florio said. "And if the Rams are intent on keeping Stafford (despite the current awkwardness between player and team), a spot won’t emerge in L.A."
Florio reports that Rodgers has shown serious interest in playing for the New York Giants. According to his sources, Rodgers reached out to the Giants and this was floated around during the NFL Combine on Tuesday. Rodgers has set two conditions for the team he plays for in 2025: it must be a good team, and they must want him.
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Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin hugs former New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers after a game in Pittsburgh while Russell Wilson and Justin Fields look on.
This is exactly why Rodgers reaching out to the Giants suggests he's not generating much interest from top teams. The Giants are not a strong football team right now, and while they could improve in 2025, they still aren't considered a contender.
The only possible explanation for Rodgers’ interest in the Giants is that he enjoys living in New York and doesn’t want to move. Alternatively, he may be seeking revenge against the Jets for not wanting him back. Regardless, it’s a curious and somewhat unexpected move that hints the market is dry for the 41 year old quarterback.
Steelers Don't Appear To Have True Interest In Aaron Rodgers
Despite wanting to return to the Jets in 2025 and even pleading for another chance, Rodgers reportedly found the Jets under new Head Coach Aaron Glenn focused on moving in a younger direction. Florio’s perspective is that Rodgers reaching out to the Giants indicates he likely isn't drawing interest from top-tier teams like the Steelers. This revelation will likely bring a sense of relief to Steelers fans, many of whom have been vocal about not wanting the 41-year-old quarterback in Pittsburgh.
The case for signing Rodgers is a bit of a puzzle. He threw for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and just 11 interceptions in 2024, but the Jets still struggled to win despite a talented roster. Steelers fans fear a similar scenario could unfold in Pittsburgh, where a young offensive line and less overall offensive talent could limit his impact.
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Former New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers celebrates a touchdown during an away game.
However, one reason Tomlin and the Steelers might have some slight interest is their aging defense, which is in "win-now" mode. If the Steelers are truly focused on immediate success, signing Rodgers to a one-year deal at the veteran minimum could make sense. While this move might not be popular or attractive, it could offer a short-term solution. Based on Florio’s information from Tuesday, though, it appears the Steelers are not pursuing Rodgers at this time.
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