The Pittsburgh Steelers are still waiting on Aaron Rodgers to make a decision about his future, but more and more details continue to emerge that point to him being their next starting quarterback.
He recently met up with the Steelers' biggest (so far) addition of the offseason, completing a throwing session with D.K. Metcalf at UCLA. Rodgers seems to be preparing himself to be the Steelers' starter in 2025, so what is the holdup?
The price tag could potentially be a part of the problem. NFL insider Ian Rapoport joined the Pat McAfee show to discuss the Rodgers situation, and among other things, talked about what the contract for Rodgers could look like.
Pittsburgh Steelers price for Aaron Rodgers "manageable" according to Ian Rapoport
If the contract Aaron Rodgers wants is the issue, this could drag on for quite some time. The Steelers are well-known for being a frugal organization, although the D.K. Metcalf contract may be a sign that is changing. Either way, the contract being offered at this time is considered "manageable" according to Rapoport.
"I don't know what the number is gonna be but I was told that it would be a manageable deal..
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) March 31, 2025
I still think there's some things that need to be finalized but I think it would be under $40M"@RapSheet #PMSLive https://t.co/EFuZOidRV8 pic.twitter.com/3ym7xPmp1J
If the number Rapoport believes is correct, then the Steelers clearly view Rodgers for what he is: a true stop-gap solution for 2025. Less than $40 million with where QB contracts are is very reasonable for any legit starter, and Rodgers should still be one for at least another season.
Make no mistake, it is still a hefty price to pay for a regressing Rodgers. The former MVP had one of, if not his worst, full seasons of his long career in 2024. Even his biggest fans know he was at least part of the reason the New York Jets' season fell apart.
Still, nobody available in free agency or the upcoming NFL draft gives the Steelers a better chance to compete in 2025.
With aging vets like Cam Heyward and T.J. Watt still leading the defense and a talented but inexperienced offense, Rodgers offers an opportunity to maximize 2025 without compromising the future. Considering it looks like the Steelers or retirement for the future Hall of Famer, he seems destined to be a Steeler sooner rather than later.