Rodgers’ statement underscores the Steelers’ quarterback conundrum. Last season, Russell Wilson, then 36, led Pittsburgh to a 9-8 record and a playoff berth on a bargain $1.21 million deal, with the Denver Broncos footing most of his $39 million salary. Yet, the Steelers let him walk, and Wilson landed with the Giants, leaving Pittsburgh scrambling. Now, with Rodgers in their sights, the stakes are higher. Art Rooney II has already called Rodgers’ earlier $50 million ask “too high,” but the new $20 million floor—pegged above Wilson’s base—signals Rodgers won’t settle for less than a premium, even for one year.
The Steelers, fresh off a playoff miss without Wilson, see Rodgers as a potential savior. His 2024 stats with the Jets—3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions—prove he’s still elite, despite a 5-12 team record. Pairing him with George Pickens and a stout defense could revive Pittsburgh’s Super Bowl hopes. Yet, Rodgers’ message carries a warning: hesitate, and he’ll bolt—perhaps to retirement or a rival like the Vikings, who passed on him for J.J. McCarthy.
Fans on X are buzzing: “Steelers can’t afford to lose Rodgers too!” one wrote, while another quipped, “$20M? He’s worth it over Wilson any day.” With Wilson thriving in New York and Rodgers holding firm, Pittsburgh faces a now-or-never moment. Will they meet his price, or watch another star slip away? The clock is ticking, and Rodgers’ big message has turned up the heat on the Steel City.
