The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly close to finalizing a deal with Aaron Rodgers, but analyst Mike Florio suggests that there are deeper implications behind the news than just a simple contract signing.
While a weekend agreement is anticipated, the absence of reports regarding a financial breakthrough indicates that salary and contract structure are still significant obstacles.
The Steelers have offered Rodgers a rare unrestricted free agent (UFA) tender, providing a $15 million salary for the 2026 season, but the veteran has yet to accept, implying that he may be seeking more than just a 10% raise before officially committing to the team.
According to a theory proposed by NBC Sports, Rodgers may be negotiating for a specific “escape clause” as the team transitions from the Mike Tomlin era to Mike McCarthy.
Florio speculates that Rodgers is looking for an unofficial “cut commitment,” which would guarantee that if the team's performance declines or the front office decides to provide playing time to younger quarterbacks like Will Howard or Drew Allar, Rodgers could be released.
He reportedly wants this release to occur before the Tuesday following Week 9.
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This strategic timing would allow him to avoid the waiver wire and maintain the freedom to sign with any contender of his choice, rather than being claimed by a team he would prefer to avoid.
A defensive coordinator who faced Rodgers last season told Sports Illustrated that although his arm is still impressive, stating, “he can still f—ing throw it,” his mobility has sharply declined.
He is no longer the explosive, off-script threat capable of escaping the pocket to make plays, but instead, he now focuses on avoiding hits and operating strictly within the pocket.
As Rodgers prepares for his official visit to Pittsburgh, the Steelers must evaluate whether his legendary arm is sufficient to compensate for his diminished ability to create plays when the situation breaks down.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly close to finalizing a deal with Aaron Rodgers, but analyst Mike Florio suggests that there are deeper implications behind the news than just a simple contract signing. While a weekend agreement is anticipated, the absence of reports regarding a financial breakthrough indicates that salary and contract structure are still significant obstacles.