The longer the NFL world waits for Aaron Rodgers to decide his future, the more buzz gains over two ideas. One, he’s retiring. Two, he’s playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025 and will announce the decision on Pat McAfee’s live show next month in Pittsburgh.
Retirement still appears to be a possibility. As for going on McAfee’s show to tell the world, that doesn’t seem to be the plan. Addressing the speculation on Friday’s show, McAfee disputed the idea the big reveal is all planned out.
“That’s crazy. That is hilarious to think about,” McAfee said. “I do appreciate that people think that is what is possible.”
McAfee than sarcastically entertained the idea of Rodgers leaving everyone waiting until announcing his decision in Pittsburgh.
A Plum native, McAfee is hosting a live show dubbed “The Big Night AHT” on April 9 at Pittsburgh Paints Arena. The show sold out within hours of the announcement. Dot-connecting as the Internet loves to do, the close relationship Rodgers has with the show and its presence in Pittsburgh has many believing it’s a setup.
Throughout Rodgers’ decision, McAfee and his co-hosts remain adamant they have no inside information on what Rodgers will do. While they have downplayed the idea of retirement, they’ve offered no hints over where and when he’ll decide. However, former Packers’ teammate A.J. Hawk suggested Rodgers is a big fan of the city and the team.
“I do know that he actually really likes all the Pittsburgh staff,” Hawk said. “He loves the staff, front office, everything about Pittsburgh. That’s what makes the Steelers the Steelers from the top-down. I think he definitely loves all them.”
One week ago, Rodgers made a last-minute trip to Pittsburgh and met with Mike Tomlin, Omar Khan, and Arthur Smith for six hours. Since, there’s been nothing but radio silence. The Steelers are seemingly the only team still in-play with the Minnesota Vikings focusing on J.J. McCarthy and the New York Giants signing Russell Wilson. Those facts haven’t accelerated Rodgers’ decision.
While McAfee threw cold water on the idea of a grand plan, he invited Rodgers to make headline news at his show.
“Granted, if we are still around and a decision isn’t made, then I would like to let Aaron know that it’s certainly an opportunity for you…not a bad time or place to give a little speech. It is an option for you, Mr. Rodgers.”
If Rodgers is still mum on his future by the ninth, all eyes will be on McAfee’s show. Just in case.
Recommended for you