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Pittsburgh Steelers take a strategic step by placing an unrestricted free-agent tender on Aaron Rodgers, keeping the door ajar for his return. This move ensures they secure a compensatory draft pick if the four-time NFL MVP chooses to sign elsewhere during the 2026 season.
Steelers' general manager Omar Khan and head coach Mike McCarthy remain optimistic about Rodgers’ comeback after leading the team to an AFC North title last winter. Communication between the Steelers and Rodgers has been ongoing since the season concluded. Khan reassures fans that the selection of Drew Allar in the third round does not diminish their interest in Rodgers.
The tender allows Rodgers to explore other options without restricting the Steelers’ ability to match any offers until July 22. If he remains unsigned by then, Pittsburgh gains exclusive negotiating rights once training camp starts in late July. Additionally, the tender guarantees Rodgers a 10% salary increase if he returns for his 22nd season.
Rodgers hinted in January that he would decide "down the line,” with organized team activities beginning on May 18 and mandatory minicamp scheduled for June 2-4. Last year, he skipped OTAs, signing a one-year deal shortly after minicamp ended.
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