Rooney Optimistic About Rodgers Joining Steelers

In Palm Beach, Florida, Steelers owner Art Rooney II expressed optimism about the likelihood of Aaron Rodgers making his way to Pittsburgh. The anticipation comes after Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, recently trained with new Steelers’ wide receiver DK Metcalf, shortly after visiting the team.

Rooney shared his insights with the media during the NFL meetings, highlighting the collection of positive indications about Rodgers potentially joining the team. “We keep hearing that he’s heading in our direction so that seems to be all signs are positive so far,” he revealed.

On the coaching front, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin mentioned that while he’s in continuous communication with Rodgers, he is also content with Mason Rudolph as the team’s starting quarterback. “That’s why we brought him back,” Tomlin stated. “I’m comfortable with that. And we’ve been there before.”

The Steelers have previously allowed players like Russell Wilson and Justin Fields to enter free agency while retaining Rudolph. It’s worth noting that Pittsburgh has not won a playoff game since reaching the AFC Championship following the 2016 season.

Looking towards the future, the Steelers hold the 21st overall draft pick, where they might consider selecting Mississippi quarterback Jaxson Dart, regardless of whether the 41-year-old Rodgers joins the team or not.

As for Rodgers, he is experiencing free agency for the first time in his lengthy 20-year career. He is weighing his options between retirement, signing with Pittsburgh, or potentially joining the Minnesota Vikings, who appear committed to J.J. McCarthy.

Rooney expressed some impatience over the delay with Rodgers’ decision-making process, stating, “Didn’t envision it taking this long.” Nonetheless, he conveyed their willingness to wait a little longer, but noted, “not forever.”