The Pittsburgh Steelers seem to be operating as if they expect Aaron Rodgers to push off retirement and return to be their starting QB in 2026.
They haven't made any other quarterback moves this offseason, and so if Rodgers were to not come back, it could throw a wrench into their plans. And apparently, the potential for replacement refs could have a big impact on this.
For those who haven't kept up to speed on this -- the NFL is due to reach a new collective bargaining agreement this offseason with the NFL Referees Association.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported on Wednesday that the NFL is already laying the groundwork to potentially hire replacement officials if they can't reach a new CBA in time for the season ahead.
That in and of itself can bring about plenty of thoughts about the NFL's priorities and finances and whatever else you might think about, but apparently, it may also matter specifically to Rodgers.
This is what ESPN's Brooke Pryor wrote on X late Wednesday night as it pertains to the future Hall of Fame QB:
"Something I’ve been thinking about w/ possibility of replacement refs — does this affect Aaron Rodgers’ decision? He’s been vocal about his frustration with them and even mentioned it several times last year. Seems fair to wonder if he’d want to deal with that in his last season."
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That's a fascinating potential butterfly effect of something that you wouldn't initially expect to have an impact on a big decision like Rodgers' retirement. And maybe, either because Rodgers decides it doesn't matter or because the NFL gets a deal done, it won't actually have an impact.
But even just the thought is an unexpected conundrum, and if it actually negatively impacts the Steelers, that'll be pretty wild.
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