Despite buzz, Aaron Rodgers not locked in with Steelers; retirement rumors keep gaining steam

The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves caught in a holding pattern, anxiously awaiting clarity on whether veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers will join their ranks ahead of the 2025 NFL season. Despite swirling rumors and increasing fan speculation, no formal deal has been signed, and insiders suggest the franchise remains in the dark about Rodgers’ intentions.NFL analyst Peter Schrager shed light on the situation during a recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, pushing back against reports that a verbal commitment had already been made.“I don’t think there’s this assumed handshake deal that: ‘Hey, don’t worry, I’ll get there.’ They would have announced it. They would have signed him. They would have done it. I still think he’s deliberating. From what I gather, Pittsburgh knows no more now than they did at the Draft or before the Draft.”Rodgers, who turns 41 later this year, is reportedly weighing his options heavily, and retirement isn’t off the table. His recent statements about navigating personal issues and being in a new “serious relationship” suggest that football might not be his sole priority anymore. That emotional distance from the game, combined with the physical and mental toll of competing at an elite level, has sparked real concerns that he may decide to walk away.The Steelers, who recently traded star receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys, are in desperate need of a quarterback who can elevate their offense. Rodgers, despite his age, is seen as the most viable path to championship contention. His occasional visits to Pittsburgh and even a private workout session with wide receiver DK Metcalf have kept fans hopeful, but that hope is starting to wear thin with no concrete updates.The organization has remained publicly patient, likely because they understand the gravity of what a healthy and motivated Rodgers could bring. However, the lack of progress has inevitably started to raise eyebrows internally. With training camp looming and the quarterback position still unsettled, Pittsburgh may have to entertain alternatives sooner rather than later.One potential contingency plan that has emerged is Kirk Cousins. Schrager hinted that the seasoned quarterback could be a legitimate trade target if Rodgers ultimately decides not to sign. “I still think Kirk Cousins is a viable trade candidate if Aaron Rodgers doesn't land in Pittsburgh,” he noted. “I would keep an eye on that one.”Cousins, who brings consistency and starting-caliber leadership, might not carry the same star power as Rodgers but would offer the Steelers a more immediate and stable solution under center. With a roster still capable of playoff contention, Pittsburgh cannot afford to gamble indefinitely.As the offseason inches toward training camp, the Steelers face a pivotal decision: wait for Rodgers to make up his mind, or pivot and pursue someone like Cousins to avoid another year of quarterback instability. One thing is clear—if clarity doesn’t arrive soon, the Steelers' patience might run out before Rodgers makes his.Also Read: Is it time to walk away? Hall of Famer urges Aaron Rodgers to consider retirement over another comeback