Until Saturday, Aaron Rodgers’ options in free agency seemed rather limited. The Pittsburgh Steelers had long been regarded as his most likely destination. Despite Rodgers’ deliberate slow pace in the signing process, it appeared to the public that his move to the Steelers was all but a done deal. Meanwhile, according to Rapoport’s report, the Dallas Cowboys acquired wide receiver George Pickens from the Steelers.
However, the situation took a dramatic turn on Saturday. New Orleans Saints’ quarterback Derek Carr announced his retirement, a decision that not only reshaped the Saints’ roster but also sent shockwaves through the free agency market.
Currently, the Saints’ quarterback options include rookie Tyler Shough, second-year player Spencer Rattler, and third-year Jake Haener. Evidently, the team is in urgent need of a seasoned veteran at the position. Carr’s retirement has freed up $30 million in salary cap space, providing the Saints with the financial means to pursue Rodgers.
While there have been no official reports confirming contact between the Saints and Rodgers, it’s reasonable to assume that the Saints’ management will consider the future Hall of Famer as they search for a new quarterback. After all, if Rodgers were to join, an offensive combination featuring him, Alvin Kamara, and Chris Olave would be highly formidable.
The Saints’ entry into the race has undoubtedly put immense pressure on the Steelers, who have been eager to sign Rodgers. The Steelers’ current quarterback lineup consists of Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson, and rookie Will Howard, making it clear that the team desperately needs a star player like Rodgers to boost its competitiveness. This new competition might accelerate the negotiation process between the Steelers and Rodgers, leading to a quicker deal. On the flip side, it could also give Rodgers more leverage, potentially nullifying the Steelers’ previous efforts.
The next few days will be crucial in the free agency market. Once NFL insiders confirm the Saints as a serious contender for Rodgers, the suspense surrounding this saga will reach new heights. Additionally, if neither the Steelers nor the Saints manage to secure Rodgers, Kirk Cousins, as a trade candidate, could very well be dragged into this unfolding drama. The story of Aaron Rodgers’ free agency journey is far from over. Stay tuned for more exciting updates as this high-stakes narrative continues to unfold.