There’s risk in short-term reward. Omar Khan and the Pittsburgh Steelers have become frequent gamblers lately. A one-year deal worth up to $25 million guaranteed Aaron Rodgers’ services for another campaign. At the time,  it sounded like a modest deal for an aging quarterback with a ton of experience.Â
Well, until Arizona agreed to increase Jacoby Brissett's compensation. I believe it's a more franchise-friendly agreement.Â
A $15.5 million deal for the former third-round pick ended a stalemate between him and the Cardinals’ front office. Like most players, Brissett wanted an agreement that reflected his worth to the franchise. And he had a compelling argument. Â
In 2025, Brissett racked up 3,366 passing yards and 23 passing touchdowns. His interceptions were limited (eight), although it resulted in a 1-11 record as a starter.Â
Regardless of the results, the Cardinals still needed a quarterback. Kyler Murray landed in Minnesota after a seven-season stint as the starter, and Carson Beck is better suited to soak in knowledge rather than being thrown into the fire. Â So appeasing Brissett was one of the few options. And who could argue with the price?
But it did make me question whether Pittsburgh is paying too much for Rodgers.
We all understand the benefits of having No.12 on the roster. Not only does he have a wealth of experience, but he’s also a great mentor for Drew Allar and Will Howard. But it’s hard to ignore that his price has doubled since last year.Â
Instead of 13.5 million, Pittsburgh is paying an extra $12 million. I respect the resume, but does it justify the paycheck?
Aaron Rodgers must earn every dollar of his one-year pay raise with the Pittsburgh Steelers
It just might.
Last season, Rodgers led Pittsburgh to an AFC North championship. He put up 3,322 passing yards and 24 passing touchdowns. He even threw fewer interceptions (seven) than Brissett. Yet his receivers were unavailable, and the offensive scheme wasn't sustainable. In reality, he accomplished more with a heavier handicap - older age.Â
Dumping faith into a 42-year-old NFL quarterback is unheard of - unless they’ve turned in decent results the year prior. I wouldn’t say Rodgers had a stellar campaign last season, but his production did make Pittsburgh a stronger contender.Â
Without Rodgers, Pittsburgh would’ve put their faith in the hands of an unready gunslinger this season. Arizona would be in a similar position without Brissett. The desperation and trust in both QBs led to another year for both. For Pittsburgh, It’s a richer deal for the seasoned veteran.Â
Will more dollars equal a better turnout? I hope so.Â
There’s a clear distinction between Aaron Rodgers and Jacoby Brissett. One is a four-time MVP and Super Bowl champion. The other has yet to earn a playoff win.Â
I believe the Steelers understand the benefits of having one of the league’s most experienced QBs under center, even if it is a steeper deal for an older, less mobile quarterback than others. Jacoby Brissett’s new deal resembles what many fans expected Rodgers’ agreement to reflect. So hopefully, the future Hall of Famer brings his all during the last rodeo.
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