Aaron Rodgers is taking a measured approach regarding his football future, emphasizing that he is not pressuring anyone for a decision. During a guest appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show” on Thursday, Rodgers clarified that he is carefully considering whether to return for his 21st season in the NFL without holding anyone captive with his decision.
Following his release from the New York Jets in March, the 41-year-old future Hall of Famer and four-time NFL MVP explored potential opportunities with the Pittsburgh Steelers and engaged in discussions with the Minnesota Vikings. However, Rodgers revealed that personal matters currently hold more significance, necessitating his attention away from football.
“There are a few close friends dealing with significant challenges,” said Rodgers. “Since January, I’ve had numerous matters demanding my focus, diverting my attention from football.”
Rodgers stated that joining a new team is a substantial commitment and intends to rejoin the NFL only when fully prepared. He dismissed rumors of holding out for an extensive contract or hefty paycheck, asserting that a $10 million offer for one season would suffice for him to consider signing.
“I told each team interested that financial considerations aren’t my priority,” Rodgers affirmed.
The Steelers, equipped with ample salary cap space and few quarterbacks on their roster, appear as a viable landing spot for Rodgers. Currently, Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson are the only quarterbacks under contract. In a discreet attempt to gauge interest, Rodgers reportedly visited Pittsburgh by flying into a local airport and renting an inconspicuous Chevy Malibu.
Rodgers highlighted the importance of meeting Steelers coach Mike Tomlin, general manager Omar Khan, and connecting with the city’s ambiance. Although no deal was reached, feedback from Tomlin and team president Art Rooney II suggests that the meeting was fruitful. Further bolstering the potential fit, Rodgers already shares connections with Pittsburgh’s offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and quarterbacks coach Tom Arth, having worked with them during 2006 at Green Bay.
While Pittsburgh seemingly presents a promising opportunity for Rodgers, who also trained with new Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf, he mentioned that the prospect of retirement remains on the table. With the NFL draft around the corner, Rodgers exhibits no urgency to decide.
“I never felt obligated to provide immediate answers,” Rodgers expressed. “Teams needing to proceed in another direction should feel free; I hold nothing but respect for any such decision.”
Apart from the Steelers, Rodgers reached out to Minnesota’s coach Kevin O’Connell and held talks with New York Giants coach Brian Daboll, who Rodgers praised as possessing a “brilliant football mind.” Although remaining communicative, Rodgers underscores the precedence of personal matters.
“Deciding prematurely with personal issues on my plate wouldn’t have been fair to the Steelers or any other team,” Rodgers shared.