Rapoport: Steelers' Aaron Rodgers "Uncomfortable With Making So Much Money"

The Pittsburgh Steelers have finally found their starting quarterback for the 2025 season. Despite a lengthy wait, free agent quarterback and four-time league MVP Aaron Rodgers announced he will be signing a one-year deal with the Steelers worth up to about $20 million. The news comes as a surprise to none, as Rodgers has been rumored to sign with the team for a number of months now.

Rodgers' deal with Pittsburgh is considered to be very team-friendly, as the Steelers are expected to continue adding pieces to an underwhelming offensive unit. Rodgers, who was originally rumored to ask for far more than what he received, is a player that is past his prime, but can still add some major firepower to Arthur Smith's offense. As rumors surrounding Rodgers' contract stipulations continue to circulate around the league, NFL analyst Ian Rapport took a moment to comment on the situation.

"There's a really good history of really good veteran, accomplished and decorated quarterbacks in the final let's say one maybe two years of their career, taking less. [Tom] Brady took less. Peyton [Manning] took less. [John] Elway took less. A lot of guys do it to give the team a chance," Rapoport stated. 

Rapoport then went on to speak about the Steelers potentially adding depth following the Rodgers move, while also highlighting the future Hall of Famer's reasoning for taking a cheaper deal.

"And I know it hurt his agent, but you do it so the team can build around you," Rapoport explained. "The Steelers are not done building also, but this is sort of why you do it. You take a low salary and say, 'I'm not doing this for the money,' and you kind of just hope the team loads up around you. I would also say, I always weirdly kind of got the sense that he didn't like how it felt to make so much, so this is something that he's probably a little more comfortable with."

Rapoport's comments may come as a surprise to many, as Rodgers has signed multiple jaw dropping contracts throughout his extraordinary 20 year career. 

He is more than likely entering his final year in the league and was widely regarded as the top remaining quarterback on the market before signing with Pittsburgh.

Steelers Expected To Pursue Playmaking Depth In Free Agency

After trading star wide receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a third round pick, the Steelers now lack wide receiver depth outside of DK Metcalf. Metcalf, who was acquired by Pittsburgh in a deal with the Seattle Seahawks earlier in the offseason, is expected to play a major role on the Steelers' offense in 2025 and should have no problem further developing his connection with Rodgers. With multiple quality options remaining available in free agency, the Steelers may emerge as top suitors for veterans like Amari Cooper or Keenan Allen.

Gabe Davis, formally with the Buffalo Bills and Jacksonville Jaguars, is another top free agent who has been on the Steelers' radar as of late. He recently visited Pittsburgh last week, but he reportedly left the facility without a new contract. Injury concerns are still prevalent, but Davis remains an option for the Steelers' offense in 2025. 

With Rodgers officially signing a one-year deal to play in Pittsburgh, fans should view Rapoport's comments in a positive light. Fans should continue to monitor the free agency market, as the Steelers are expected to be in hot pursuit of a wide receiver sooner rather than later. As the team continues their preparation towards the start of the upcoming season, Rodgers is expected to be a full participant throughout the course of minicamp.

Are you excited to see Aaron Rodgers in a Steelers uniform? Comment below!

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