The quarterback carousel in the NFL is spinning ever faster, and at the center of the whirlwind is Aaron Rodgers, still undecided about his future as free agency continues. While Rodgers has expressed that the Minnesota Vikings were his top choice for a new team, the organization is reportedly set on building its squad around J.J. McCarthy, leaving the New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers as the clear frontrunners in the race for the four-time MVP. Stepping into this uncertainty is Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin, who has a strong interest in bringing Rodgers to Pittsburgh but faces the challenge of waiting for a decision that could reshape the quarterback landscape.
Recent reports indicate that Tomlin is deeply invested in acquiring Rodgers, seeing him as a pivotal asset that could lead the Steelers back to playoff glory after an eight-year drought. According to Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Tomlin is adamant that nothing will deter him from pursuing the veteran quarterback. “Mike Tomlin is the one who wants Rodgers, and apparently, the people in charge are not disagreeing,” Dulac reported on March 19, 2025. With the Steelers waiting for a final decision from Rodgers, they find themselves in a precarious position, potentially missing out on other key quarterbacks.
Adding to the dynamic, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler noted that the Steelers have offers standing for both Rodgers and the Giants, indicating that the ball is ultimately in the quarterback’s court. “Aaron Rodgers has standing offers from both the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Giants, so it’s up to him to decide,” Fowler added in remarks that reflect the fluidity of the situation. Despite interest from both teams, the frustration is beginning to show among Giants officials, who are becoming weary of the drawn-out process.
The lingering uncertainty goes beyond just Rodgers, as other quarterbacks are being shuffled across teams in the league. Sam Darnold and Geno Smith have both found new homes, while the Steelers are also looking at potential alternative options, including Joe Milton III, who played briefly for the New England Patriots last season. Having impressed during his limited appearances, Milton’s capabilities have led to trade talks, as reported by the Boston Globe, which indicates the Patriots are open to offers for the promising young signal-caller.
Rodgers’ indecision is now creating a ripple effect across the NFL, with teams repositioning themselves in anticipation of his choice. The Pittsburgh franchise faces the risk of getting stuck with Mason Rudolph, who has returned to the Steelers on a two-year deal after his season with the Titans in 2024. Although Rudolph is an experienced backup, the Steelers are eager for a more dynamic presence behind center.
Cameron Heyward, a four-time Pro Bowl defensive lineman for the Steelers, expressed his frustration with the drawn-out quarterback drama during his "Not Just Football" podcast. He stated, “I ain't doing that darkness retreat. I don't need any of that crap. Either you want to be a Pittsburgh Steeler or you don't.” His stark comments underscore the growing impatience within the organization regarding Rodgers’ prolonged deliberation.
Even as they pursue Rodgers, the Steelers cannot ignore the possibility of other players filling the quarterback void. Tyler Sullivan of CBS Sports analyzed the situation, suggesting that Milton could make sense for Pittsburgh if they miss out on their top target. “Milton could be a low-risk acquisition to come in and compete for the starting job over the summer,” Sullivan wrote, adding a realistic perspective on the potential trading avenue for the Steelers.
The stakes are indeed high for both teams interested in Aaron Rodgers. The looming draft on April 24 creates urgency, compelling the Steelers to secure a viable starting quarterback before the opportunity presents itself. Meanwhile, speculation around Rodgers’ possible retirement continues to swirl, with questions arising about his interest and desire to compete still lingering in the air.
Both the Giants and Steelers have an eye towards the future, weighing the options that will not only define their upcoming seasons but also shape their franchises for years to come. The loss of veteran quarterbacks like Russell Wilson, who has been linked to both teams in prior seasons, adds another layer of urgency. Both franchises crave a dynamic presence behind center, as they prepare for a new chapter ahead.
As tensions brew and deadlines loom, the outcome of this quarterback conundrum will echo throughout the league, with Aaron Rodgers’ decision having the potential for vast repercussions. Will he choose prefer to chase another Super Bowl run with the Steelers, or will he opt for a fresh start with the Giants? Time will tell.
