Aaron Rodgers was not the Pittsburgh Steelers’ first choice this offseason, ESPN insider Adam Schefter says. Schefter says the Steelers’ first option was to bring back Justin Fields, but they also tried to trade for Matthew Stafford.
Rodgers came in as the team’s third choice, ahead of those like Russell Wilson, so the Steelers were content waiting him out.
“This was the best move that the Pittsburgh Steelers could make right now,” Schefter said. “But, lets also remember, this was the third option for the Pittsburgh Steelers. They were in on Matthew Stafford and couldn’t get done a trade. They tried to re-sign Justin Fields, he opted to go to the New York Jets where he will meet Aaron Rodgers on opening day. After they couldn’t get a trade done for Stafford and couldn’t get Fields re-signed, they pivoted to Aaron Rodgers. So Aaron Rodgers, right now, was their third choice.”
Rodgers had 28 touchdowns to 11 interceptions in 2024. He went just 5-12 in his starts with the Jets, and even after they acquired All-Pro wide receiver Davante Adams, went just 3-8. It was a tough season for Rodgers, who also had multiple leg injuries.
The Steelers think something remains in the tank for the former four-time MVP. They zeroed in on him as their target, as a result, especially after missing on re-signing Justin Fields.
Now, Rodgers will be with the Steelers on a deal that will not break the bank, and could still land them another wide receiver to help Rodgers.