One analyst believes the Pittsburgh Steelers are finally taking control over quarterback Aaron Rodgers .
The Pittsburgh Steelers made the rare decision to offer quarterback Aaron Rodgers a UFA tender, which is a contract that will allow them to retain his rights throughout the free agent process. NFL analyst Colin Cowherd of The Herd loves to see it.
"Essentially Pittsburgh said, 'Yeah, I know you were probably at Coachella, but I'm the coach, fella.' It's gonna be the way I want it. I want my quarterback burning man-to-man, not attending Burning Man," Cowherd said . "Like you're either in or you're out. You're committed or you're not. The NFL doesn't wait for anybody, especially a 42-year-old."
The Steelers offer is a one-year contract at a 10% raise from his previous salary, which would be just over $15 million.
Rodgers can sign the deal at any time and is still free to speak with other teams until either July 22 or the start of Steelers training camp, whichever comes first. However, if Rodgers agrees to a deal with another team, he would count toward the Steelers compensatory draft pick formula, approximately equating to a fourth-round pick.
If Rodgers does not sign with any team before July 22 or the start of Steelers training camp, the Steelers' right to him becomes exclusive and he can only play for the Steelers in 2025.
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers in a game against the Baltimore Ravens on Jan. 4, 2026. — Ed Thompson / Steelers Now
Cowherd thinks it would be best for Rodgers to just hang up his cleats for good, though.
"I think the Steelers are better playing Will Howard or Drew Allar and just seeing what happens, see if the kids can play," Cowherd continued. "I want my quarterback to be a leader, not a spiritual leader. I need you to be a football leader."
The Steelers certainly have two intriguing options in Howard and Allar, but there's no doubt they would welcome back Rodgers with open arms. The question remains if and when that will even happen.
Alan Saunders contributed to this story.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now : Analyst Applauds Steelers For Latest Aaron Rodgers Decision: 'The NFL Doesn't Wait For Anybody'
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