TheNew York Giants are making a serious push for Aaron Rodgers. Despite plenty of skepticism about their chances, they’ve reportedly had “great conversations” with the four-time MVP. According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, a big part of their pitch involves pairing Rodgers with rising star wide receiverMalik Nabers. The Giants believe that Nabers, with his elite football IQ and versatility, could thrive with Rodgers running the offense.
That’s all well and good, but there’s one problem: the Pittsburgh Steelers are also in the mix. In fact, Rodgers may already be leaning in their direction. Mike Florio of NBC Sports recently reported that Rodgers “wants to play for the Steelers,” adding even more intrigue to an already chaotic free agency period.
The Russell Wilson problem: What happens if Rodgers goes to Pittsburgh?
If Rodgers heads to Pittsburgh, the ripple effect could be huge-especially for Russell Wilson. The veteran QB helped the Steelers reach the playoffs last season, but his spot isn’t guaranteed. With the team actively pursuing Rodgers, Wilson is essentially in a holding pattern. If Pittsburgh lands Rodgers, Wilson will be forced to find another team. If Rodgers chooses the Giants, the Steelers may turn back to Wilson as their fallback option.
According to Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the Steelers have kept communication open with Wilson in case Rodgers goes elsewhere. But if Pittsburgh does move on from Wilson, where would he go? Teams like the Tennessee Titans and Las Vegas Raiders have been linked to him, but nothing is certain until Rodgers makes up his mind.
The Giants are playing catch-up, but they’re not out of it yet
New York might be seen as the underdog in the Rodgers sweepstakes, but they’re doing everything they can to make themselves a serious contender. Beyond the pitch about Nabers, they’ve been active in free agency, bringing in defensive reinforcements like Paulson Adebo and Jevon Holland. Their goal? To show Rodgers that this isn’t just a rebuilding team-it’s a franchise ready to compete.
Still, they’re fighting an uphill battle. The Steelers just traded for star wide receiver D.K. Metcalf, giving Rodgers an even more enticing target. If Rodgers wants to win right away, Pittsburgh makes a lot of sense. But if he’s drawn to the idea of staying in the New York market and taking on a fresh challenge, the Giants could be the surprise winners here.
An entire league waiting on one decision
Rodgers’ next move won’t just affect the Giants and Steelers-it could set off a chain reaction across the NFL. If he lands in Pittsburgh, Wilson becomes the odd man out, and another team will have to scramble to pick him up. If Rodgers chooses New York, Pittsburgh will have to decide whether to keep Wilson or go after another option.
No matter what, one quarterback’s future is about to change dramatically. Now, it’s just a waiting game.
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