As of Friday, the Pittsburgh Steelers don’t know their starting quarterback for the 2025 season. At this point, 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers appears to be the team’s primary focus.
They would have already negotiated a deal if Pittsburgh were interested in running it back with Russell Wilson. Their view of Rodgers compared to Wilson is pretty telling. The issue is that Rodgers is taking his time, which is starting to seriously stress out the organizations interested in his services — and their fans.
The Steelers’ main competitor in the Rodgers sweepstakes appears to be the New York Giants. New York has been aggressive in its pursuit, and if the Steelers truly want Rodgers under center in 2025, they may have to step up their efforts before the Giants lock him in.
Pittsburgh’s hesitation could cost them, and if Rodgers ultimately chooses New York, the Steelers will be left scrambling for a backup plan. Whether that means pivoting back to Wilson, turning to the draft, or exploring another option entirely, the Steelers are quickly approaching a crucial decision point.
On Friday, NFL insider Dianna Russini told Chase Daniel on the Scoop City Podcast that the Giants are the highest bidder. That’s a significant development, as it suggests that New York is making a stronger financial push for Rodgers, something Pittsburgh may not be willing or able to match. If the Steelers aren’t prepared to compete with the Giants' offer, they could find themselves on the outside looking in as Rodgers makes his decision.
"From what I understand, the New York Giants are the team right now that have offered the most [money]," Russini said.
When Mike Florio first floated his educated guess that Rodgers could command a two-year, $90 million deal, Steelers fans laughed it off. The idea of paying a 41-year-old quarterback $45 million per season seemed outrageous. Nevertheless, Florio defended his estimate, arguing that the number isn't as far-fetched as it might seem when you compare Rodgers’ potential contract to what other quarterbacks are making around the league.
The issue is that committing such a massive sum to a quarterback at Rodgers’ age is a serious gamble. While he’s a four-time MVP, he’s also one season removed from coming off an Achilles injury, making any financial commitment even riskier. Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo weighed in on Thursday night, offering his educated guess that Rodgers could land a deal worth at least $30 million annually.
Both figures are steep, but there’s a significant difference between $30 million and $45 million per season. Some Steelers fans might be able to stomach the lower number, especially if it means securing a Hall of Fame-caliber quarterback. But if Rodgers insists on the kind of deal Florio suggested, Pittsburgh may have to decide whether he’s worth that level of investment — or if it’s time to look elsewhere.
Steelers being outbid by Giants is scary
Rodgers claimed he wanted to join a good team, and when comparing rosters, the Steelers are the more talented squad. However, money talks and Rodgers has never shied away from the spotlight. He’s made it clear he’s in no rush to decide, leaving teams and fans in limbo. NFL analysts and insiders have consistently stated that the only way Rodgers would choose the Giants over the Steelers is if New York offered a deal Pittsburgh wasn’t willing to match.
Now that reports indicate that’s exactly what’s happening, Steelers fans wonder if the Giants are about to swoop in and steal their quarterback for the 2025 season. Rodgers' decision is dragging out, adding to the anxiety in Pittsburgh, where the quarterback situation remains unsettled.
There’s been plenty of debate about what the Steelers should do, but at this point, Steeler Nation wants clarity. Whether it’s Rodgers or another option, the team needs to lock in a starting quarterback for 2025 and move forward.
