Schefter: Steelers Attempted A Surprising QB Trade Prior To Seriously Pursuing Aaron Rodgers’
Below is an in‑depth exploration (≈650 words) of Schefter’s report—and the ripple effects of Pittsburgh’s quarterback pursuit:
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🧠 1. The surprising revelation from Schefter
According to Adam Schefter on Get Up, the Pittsburgh Steelers did not originally set their sights on Aaron Rodgers as their primary target. In fact, Rodgers was their third option at quarterback this offseason .
First, they tried to re-sign Justin Fields, hoping to retain the dynamic young talent. Yet Fields opted for a new deal with the New York Jets .
Second, they pursued a trade for Matthew Stafford from the Rams. Although Stafford had spoken to the Steelers, L.A. never reached a trade agreement .
Only after both opportunities vanished did Pittsburgh pivot to Rodgers, arriving at an agreement with the 41‑year‑old quarterback .
Schefter stressed enthusiastically that Rodgers was not their Plan A:
> “This was the best move … but let’s also remember, this was the third option for the Pittsburgh Steelers.”
It’s rare for Rodgers to be described as a fallback choice, making this candid assessment all the more notable.
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2. What this reveals about Pittsburgh’s strategy
The fact that Fields and Stafford topped Pittsburgh’s QB radar tells us a lot:
Justin Fields behind center would have injected youth, dual-threat capability, and long-term upside into a franchise seeking stability.
Matthew Stafford, despite being in his mid‑30s, offered a proven veteran presence who fits structurally into Pittsburgh’s run-your-way, throw-when-needed identity.
On the other hand, Aaron Rodgers, though still elite, carries age-related uncertainties—especially post‑Achilles injury—making him a pragmatic, short‑term solution.
Tweeted Bolavip columnist Miguel Angel Fernandez Castro echoed Schefter’s timeline: Pittsburgh prioritized Stafford and Fields before “pivoting to Aaron Rodgers” .
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3. The Rodgers contract & final decision
Once Rodgers emerged as the remaining compelling option, negotiations closed swiftly. He signed a one‑year deal worth $13.65 million, with $10 million guaranteed and incentives that could push it to $19.5 million .
This short‑term deal underscores Pittsburgh’s intent: seize immediate opportunity, then reassess for a long‑term starter.
At age 41, Rodgers is clearly viewed as a mentor‑measure before drafting a younger QB in 2026.
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4. Reaction around the NFL
The response to Rodgers joining Pittsburgh has been mixed but engaged:
ESPN reported fans and analysts dissected Rodgers’ “diminishing expectations” following a 28‑TD, 3,897‑yard season with the Jets .
Washington Post framed this move as part of a broader ripple effect—especially for teams like the Falcons or Vikings—solidifying other teams’ QB directions .
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5. Pittsburgh’s contingency plan
Even after signing Rodgers, the Steelers have remained cautious:
They reportedly retained contingency options like Kirk Cousins or even Carson Wentz, in case Rodgers faltered or didn’t commit .
Their fire‑sale of veteran QBs Justin Fields and Russell Wilson shows confidence in landing Rodgers—but also framed it as a high‑stakes gambit .
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6. What lies ahead for the Steelers
With Rodgers on board, several key questions emerge:
🔷 Offensive trajectory
Rodgers joins a team built for physicality and veteran leadership. With weapons like DK Metcalf and Robert Woods, former Steelers say Rodgers “puts you over the hump” for Super Bowl contention .
His veteran savvy may help stabilize Pittsburgh’s offense and unlock postseason edge.
🔷 Roster and draft strategy
Rodgers is filling the quarterback gap for now—but Pittsburgh is stockpiling picks and eyeing the 2026 QB class .
This points to a measured but explosive approach: maximize this season, then commit deeper.
🔷 Coaching & team culture
Mike Tomlin has previously burned bridges with unproven QBs like Shedeur Sanders. Now, with Rodgers, there’s no tolerance for immaturity or friction .
Even veteran Russell Wilson’s struggles raised red flags for Tomlin’s risk tolerance.
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7. What this means for Rodgers
For Rodgers, Pittsburgh is a crossroads:
It’s a prove‑it deal—one year to demonstrate he still can win, ideally shake off inconsistency post‑Achilles.
A strong season would enhance his legacy and allow him to choose his next step, whether it continues in Pittsburgh, elsewhere, or retirement.
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🏁 Final takeaway
Schefter’s insight flips the narrative: Pittsburgh’s quarterback gamble was attempted first with Fields, then Stafford—with Rodgers falling into place only after those pieces didn’t fit. Now armed with a one‑year veteran band‑aid, the Steelers are balancing competitiveness with future planning.
They’ve traded long-term QB clarity for short-term potential—and with Rodgers at the helm, the entire franchise will be evaluated on how it plays out this season and beyond.
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