Perhaps quarterback Aaron Rodgers' dragging out his free agency and holding two teams hostage in the process is his magnum opus.
The New York Giants are eagerly awaiting Rodgers' decision, one that seems increasingly likely to come down to either East Rutherford or the Pittsburgh Steelers – with a brief cameo from the Minnesota Vikings.
Rodgers struggled in 2024, and won't make any team a true Super Bowl contender. And yet, two teams are holding their breath and waiting on his willingness to put pen to paper.
The race has had multiple favorites. Pittsburgh seemed logical given its two 2024 starters hitting the market, New York might be the only team more desperate for a starting quarterback.
Now, the Giants are rumored to lose Rodgers to the iconic AFC franchise.
"While the New York Giants are still rumored to be an option, this is beginning to feel like Pittsburgh-or-retirement for Rodgers if the Minnesota Vikings don't come calling," Nick Brinkerhoff wrote. "The Steelers can offer Rodgers a chance to win in 2025.
"While he's notoriously someone that enjoys being in the spotlight, this offseason feels different."
New York's front office badly needs a veteran passer in the room, both to help win games in 2025 and to bring along a rookie quarterback that is largely expected to be taken with a top-three pick come April. This regime cannot afford another lost season, and a capable veteran quarterback is the quickest path to said goal.
Rodgers should be competent, throwing for 28 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 2024. But it's clear that it takes more than two star receivers and an average offensive line for his units to function on the wrong side of 40 years old, and he'll be operating an offense he's less comfortable with.
Related: BREAKING: Giants Sign Starting Corner
Pittsburgh, meanwhile, offers more stability with head coach Mike Tomlin, more receiving talent (even if Malik Nabers is the best of the two teams' targets), and a more proven defense. If the goal is to win in 2025, the Steelers should take priority.
"The Steelers have the chance to potentially do something special thanks to their defense and the reinforcements coming on offense," he continued. "Rodgers might be the final piece. If his heart isn't into it, Canton, not Pittsburgh, will be the future Hall of Famer's next stop."
As rumors of Rodgers' retirement continue to swirl, it may be prudent for New York to pivot to the "next-best" option, Russell Wilson, ahead of time – even if it means sacrificing some upside.
Related: Giants Prioritize Defensive Line Depth With Early Signing
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This story was originally published March 16, 2025 at 12:50 PM.