The NFL’s schedule release has come and gone, and now fans and the media get to dig in to what it all means.
And for the media meaning the networks? What they dig most of all is ratings.
That's why Jim Nantz, CBS’s top play-by-play commentator, is going public with a humorous plea to Aaron Rodgers to get off his butt and sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers already.
"We have a heavy Pittsburgh influence on our schedule," Nantz said in an appearance on NFL Network. "There's a lot there to like about the Steelers, especially if they're good. ... I don't know if you're watching, Aaron Rodgers. I hope you are. But I want you to know ... just a few of my colleagues and some friends, we wanna see you in the Steel City this season.”
Nantz is trying to be funny.
But ratings and revenue are no joke.
From a football perspective? There’s a real chance veteran Mason Rudolph starts for Pittsburgh in 2025. Maybe that works out. ...Though the painfully patient Steelers clearly feel they are a better team with Rodgers on the roster.
And the league clearly feels they're a more entertaining team with Rodgers under center, too.
The 41-year-old passer and four-time NFL MVP is a walking, talking, drama-filled drawing card.
That's what Nantz is really saying here.
"We need the Steelers to be good," Nantz said. "They need you. I saw you play last year. ... I know you can still play. You get doubled-up with Mike Tomlin and T.J. Watt on that defense. I think it'd be a great thing. Let's get this thing done.
"I'm just making a personal appeal: We want you, we need you, and we look forward to seeing you."