Did Aaron Rodgers wait for the schedule to be released to return to Steelers?
NBC Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Aaron Rodgers surprised many by signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers for the 2026 season after keeping his plans private until recently.
- The Steelers' use of the unrestricted free agent tender on Rodgers indicates the team was uncertain about his intentions.
- Rodgers may have delayed announcing his return until after the 2026 NFL schedule was finalized, potentially to avoid benefiting the league's scheduling decisions.
- The NFL previously justified giving the Jets multiple primetime games in 2024 due to Rodgers' absence, suggesting the league adjusts schedules based on player commitments.
- By signing just before Steelers OTAs and after the schedule release, Rodgers ensured full participation in team activities while limiting the league’s ability to tailor the schedule around him.