In a bombshell article by Matt Barrows of The Athletic, the Pittsburgh Steelers were one of two teams interested in adding Marquez Valdes-Scantling to their group. The veteran receiver had to choose between Pittsburgh and the San Francisco 49ers. He believed that the 49ers' practice squad was best for his career, and that is why he failed to join the Steelers, despite their need at the receiver position.
The connection between the explosive playmaker and Aaron Rodgers is apparent. They spent four years as teammates during their stints with the Green Bay Packers. Rodgers would love for a former receiver of his to join the roster and show the rest of the depth chart how he likes to operate. One thing is for sure: Valdes-Scantling showed how desperate Rodgers is for help.
“He wanted me back over there,” Valdes-Scantling told Barrows.
The future Hall of Fame quarterback has been known to recruit some of his former teammates, but this would go against much of what the Steelers believe. They expect decision-makers to choose for themselves, free from the influence of their players' opinions.
Rodgers clearly wants a new addition to his arsenal this season, but after Valdes-Scantling made his choice, the gunslinger must turn his attention elsewhere.
Pittsburgh Steelers' Aaron Rodgers is begging the team to upgrade the receiver position
The fit between the Steelers and 49ers was sensible for Valdes-Scantling, but his decision to go to the 49ers only exposed how much Rodgers wants a familiar face in the locker room.
Pittsburgh might have some internal solutions at the receiver position, but it will take time to see if Wilson or Austin is the answer they are looking for. In the meantime, it sounds like the starting quarterback will do his best to recruit some of his former playmakers.
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When it comes to Valdes-Scantling and his reasoning behind skipping his reunion with Rodgers, he believes this is best for him. Residing in sunny California rather than a cold, snowy climate is an added benefit. The veteran player did say it was a close decision, but he was ready to risk signing with the 49ers' practice squad with the hope of expanding his role at some point.
Barrows wrote, "Valdes-Scantling said it was “50-50” for a while, but he decided the 49ers were a better career choice."
Despite Rodgers recruiting Valdes-Scantling to join Pittsburgh, the veteran receiver wanted to stick with a familiar offensive scheme. He played some of last season for the New Orleans Saints, which was under the direction of offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak. Kubiak's younger brother, Klay, holds the same job title with the 49ers, which should make any transition easier.
"The seven-year veteran noted he spent half of the 2024 season playing under New Orleans Saints offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, whose younger brother, Klay, has the same job with the 49ers. Which means he can contribute quickly," Barrows explained.
The rumors continue to pile onto the Steelers' desk regarding their potential addition to the roster. There have been players cut, and those available on the trade market who could've provided upgrades to the receiver room. Rodgers would love to add some security to the depth chart, instead of relying on Roman Wilson and Calvin Austin III as vital role players for their offense.
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