NFL News: Mike Tomlin, Steelers reportedly know Aaron Rodgers’ final decision and the reason he’s delaying it

It’s been a long wait, but Mike Tomlin and the Pittsburgh Steelers reportedly have a good feeling about where the Aaron Rodgers saga is heading to. With the 2025 NFL season drawing nearer, the team is still waiting for the 41-year-old.

And even though they can’t say it in public, word around the league is that the Steelers know they’ll count on Rodgers this year. In fact, Tomlin and company reportedly know the reason A-Rod is taking his time to confirm his decision.

Speaking on her podcast Scoop City on Monday night, NFL insider Dianna Russini of The Athletic revealed that the Steelers have Rodgers’ word that he’ll join them, only that he’s avoiding questions about skipping Organized Team Activities (OTAs).

“Still waiting for Aaron Rodgers,” Russini said. “Whether or not he’s going to sign with the Pittsburgh Steelers — Chase [Daniel], I talked to some people within the league and they have their theories that the Steelers know Aaron’s going there.

Aaron Rodgers reacts prior to a game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on October 29, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

“They have a handshake that he’s going to be there, he just doesn’t want to answer questions about not being at Organized Team Activities (OTAs) because he just wants to step away for now.”

see also

NFL News: Steelers HC Mike Tomlin loses key player to an AFC North rival

Steelers have a good feeling about Rodgers

Russini clarified that while the Steelers can’t confirm Rodgers will play for them, they believe in what their handshake represents. It’s been a long wait, but it could be over just in time for the 2025 NFL season.

“I can tell you from the latest conversations I’ve had with Pittsburgh, the sense I get is they feel good it’s happening,” Russini explained. “I don’t feel like they think it’s a done deal. So take that for what it is.”

Steelers patiently giving Rodgers his time

The Third Phase of the offseason program is right around the corner, but it doesn’t seem to put pressure on the four-time NFL MVP. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, Tomlin and the Steelers are fine with waiting for Rodgers as long as he ends up playing in Pittsburgh.

In the meantime, the team is heading into OTAs with three quarterbacks under contract: Mason Rudolph, Will Howard, and Skylar Thompson. Another signal-caller is expected to be on the QB room come training camp, with all eyes on Rodgers.