The Pittsburgh Steelers’ front office may be regretting its commitment to Aaron Rodgers. Waiting on the 20-year veteran cost the team several viable quarterback candidates, leaving them without a clear starter under center. However, some analysts believe this apparent nightmare scenario could have a silver lining.
Despite warnings from insiders and analysts to steer clear, the Steelers pursued Rodgers anyway. The team invited the four-time MVP to a meeting at their headquarters-only for it to lead nowhere. Star receiver DK Metcalf tried to lure Rodgers with a private practice session but received no response from the signal-caller.
The Steelers went all in on Rodgers, but in the end, it appears they will have to settle for veteran Mason Rudolph as their starter. Still, according to NBC Sports insider Mike Florio, there may be a light at the end of the tunnel.
The NFL knows Rodgers’ history
While Rodgers continues to deliberate, Florio advised the Steelers to hold out for him as long as possible. He pointed out that last season, the NFL scheduled the New York Jets for a significant number of primetime games-largely to capitalize on the controversy that always follows the Super Bowl XLV champion.
“Maybe the schedule won’t have as many primetime appearances from Mason Rudolph,” Florio suggested, implying that by prolonging Rodgers’ decision, the NFL might schedule Pittsburgh’s games earlier in the day, avoiding showcasing an offense that isn’t expected to thrive.
However, Florio also acknowledged that the league might not wait for Rodgers’ decision and could still schedule the Steelers in primetime multiple times. If Rodgers doesn’t sign, it could spell trouble-not just for the team, but for viewers stuck watching an underwhelming offense.
Rodgers loves the spotlight
A year ago, as he prepared to return from the injury that sidelined him for the entire 2023 season with the Jets, Rodgers expressed his love for playing under the bright lights of primetime. “We are must-watch TV. And that’s pretty obvious. Everybody knows that,” he said at the time.
“Whether you love me or hate me, people want to see me play,” Rodgers added after learning the NFL had awarded them six primetime slots in the first 12 weeks of the season. Ultimately, the Jets finished the year with a 5-12 record-many of those losses broadcast on national television.
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