PALM BEACH, Fla. — Pittsburgh Steelers’ owner Art Rooney II recently expressed optimism about the possibility of Aaron Rodgers joining the team. There are “positive signs” that the seasoned quarterback may soon call Pittsburgh home.
Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, has been seen working out alongside new Steelers’ wide receiver DK Metcalf, following a recent visit to the franchise. “We’ve been hearing favorable indications that he’s coming our way,” Rooney noted during the NFL meetings on Tuesday.
Additionally, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin expressed that he is maintaining communication with Rodgers while being comfortable with Mason Rudolph as their potential starting quarterback. “That’s the reason we retained him,” Tomlin said, referring to Rudolph. “I feel secure about that choice. We’ve experienced this scenario before.”
The Steelers made some strategic moves in free agency, allowing Russell Wilson and Justin Fields to sign with other teams, while retaining Rudolph. Pittsburgh has been eager to improve their playoff performance, having not won a postseason game since their appearance in the AFC title match after the 2016 season.
With the 21st overall draft pick, the Steelers have multiple options, including potentially selecting Mississippi quarterback Jaxson Dart, regardless of whether or not the 41-year-old Rodgers joins the team.
For the first time in his extensive 20-year career, Rodgers is entering free agency. He faces several options: retirement, a potential contract with the Steelers, or possibly waiting on interest from the Minnesota Vikings, who currently seem inclined to proceed with J.J. McCarthy.
Rooney acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Rodgers’ decision. “I didn’t expect it to take this long,” he admitted, but conceded they’ve decided to wait a bit longer, while cautioning, “not indefinitely.”