Steelers Make Decision On QB Aaron Rodgers

PITTSBURGH, PA — The Steelers used a seldom-used move on Aaron Rodgers, last year's starting quarterback, to protect their rights to the free agent player.

According to ESPN, the Steelers placed an unrestritced free agent tag on Rodgers.

What does that mean?

The contract tender means the Steelers will receive a compensatory draft pick if he signs with another team and also limits his ability to join a competing team.

The move also means that Rodgers can accept a 10 percent raise from last year's salary, which would pay him roughly $15 million this season.

If he does not accept that, the Steelers will have exclusive negotiating rates if he doesn't sign with another team by July 22.

Rodgers led the Steelers to a 10-7 regular season record in 2025. The team was trounced by the Houston Texans, 30-7 in the first round of the playoffs.

As Rodgers, a sure Hall of Fame selection when he retires, has not made a decision on if he will return, the Steelers quarterback room currently appears to have a dearth of experience and questionable talent at the position.

Currently on the roster are Mason Rudolph, who has been a capable backup and occasional fill-in-starter; Will Howard, a sixth-round draft choice last year from Ohio State who did not play a single down because of injury; and Drew Allar, a just-drafted rookie out of Penn State.