The Steelers’ offseason has been defined by a mixture of bold moves and cryptic quarterback whispers. While Aaron Rodgers’ name continues to circulate in Pittsburgh rumor mills, the franchise has shown signs of planning for multiple contingencies, including the blockbuster trade that sent star wideout George Pickens to Dallas. Now, speculation is growing that the Steelers could reunite Rodgers with familiar faces like Allen Lazard or Romeo Doubs. But not everyone believes Rodgers is coming.
On SiriusXM NFL Radio’s May 6 episode of “The Opening Drive,” longtime NFL executive Bill Polian and former NFL safety Solomon Wilcox urged the Steelers — and fans — to be cautious about banking on a Rodgers arrival. According to them, Pittsburgh needs to build its roster as if Rodgers won’t be under center this fall, no matter how many breadcrumbs point in that direction.
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When asked about the Rodgers-to-Pittsburgh rumors, Polian, a six-time NFL Executive of the Year, didn’t mince words.
“At some stage if Aaron decides he gives that he doesn’t want to play, then back to the drawing board,” Polian said. “But the idea that you’re waiting for Godot, and you’re waiting for the cavalry to come over the hill led by Aaron Rodgers, that ain’t happening.”
Polian’s advice? Don’t plan on the 40-year-old quarterback walking through the door.
“You have to presume it’s not happening,” he continued. “If it does, good. If not, don’t worry about it.”
That sentiment echoes what many in the league have quietly believed — Rodgers may be more retired than not. After taking just four snaps before tearing his Achilles in Week 1 of 2023 and navigating personal priorities off the field, his interest in suiting up again remains unclear.
Wilcox backed up Polian’s assessment, adding that Rodgers’s language has been telling.
“Just keep moving forward,” Wilcox said. “If the word retirement is part of the conversation and easily flowing off your lips, then you’re probably already retired.”
He pointed to the reality that priorities change, especially for players in their 40s.
“He does have personal things to tend to in his life. There is no doubt when you get into your 40s, those things tend to take precedence over a kid’s game,” Wilcox added. “We’re grown men playing a kid’s game. There is no doubt about it. And sooner or later, life does set in.”
Despite the warnings, Pittsburgh’s recent moves suggest they’re still leaving the door open. Despite grumblings from Steelers Nation, trading Pickens cleared both salary and attitude concerns, and the team has reportedly explored adding familiar Rodgers targets like Lazard and Doubs. If Rodgers does choose to return, the Steelers want to be ready. But if he doesn’t? Polian’s message is clear: Don’t build the house on hope.
Whether Rodgers ever takes a snap in black and gold, the Steelers’ front office appears to be walking the tightrope between preparing for a future with him — and being ready to pivot without him.