Aaron Rodgers not expected to re-sign with Steelers

This isn’t particularly stunning within the wake of comments proprietor Artwork Rooney II made following Tomlin’s exit.

“Aaron got here right here to play for Mike, so I believe it’ll most certainly have an effect on his determination,” Rooney mentioned of Rodgers’ future.

Throughout his journey to free company final offseason, Rodgers reportedly advised the Vikings they have been his most well-liked group. After Minnesota didn’t reciprocate, the longtime Packer and ex-Jet pivoted to Pittsburgh on a one-year, $13.65M contract.

Of their solely 12 months working collectively, Rodgers and Tomlin fashioned a powerful bond throughout a 10-7 marketing campaign. With Rodgers offering an improve over predecessor and fellow short-term stopgap Russell Wilson, Tomlin went out together with his eighth AFC North title and thirteenth playoff berth.

Along with his Steelers tenure possible over, it’s unclear if the 42-year-old Rodgers will goal to play a twenty second season in 2026. Rodgers said before the season that it will most likely be his final, however he left the door open for a 2026 return in late December. Whereas a Monday morning report pointed to mutual curiosity in Rodgers persevering with as a Steeler subsequent 12 months, that was earlier than their season fizzled out with a 30-6 loss to the Texans within the wild-card spherical. Tomlin stepped down the subsequent day.

If that is it for Rodgers, his illustrious profession will conclude on a decent word. The Steelers didn’t have a terrific offensive supporting solid round him, however Rodgers accomplished 65.7% of passes, amassed 3,322 yards, tossed 24 touchdowns towards seven interceptions, and posted a 94.8 passer ranking in 16 video games. That could be sufficient to persuade different groups to pursue him as a short-term repair within the offseason.

With Rodgers seemingly performed in Pittsburgh, it’s unknown which route the group will take at quarterback this offseason. Mason Rudolph is underneath contract for an additional 12 months, however he’s possible higher off in a backup function. Sixth-round choose Will Howard, who didn’t throw a go as a rookie, is one other in-house choice. In any other case, free company, the commerce market and the draft will probably be potential avenues for the Steelers. With nonetheless a few months earlier than selections are made on that entrance, the Steelers are working to discover a new head coach for the primary time since 2007.