Aaron Rodgers' name became the most common subject of NFL sports news headlines after the rumored Pittsburgh Steelers trade surfaced. However, he needs to be quick in choosing a team as veteran quarterback Russell Wilson's future will depend on his decision.
Speculations point to Wilson signing with the New York Giants if the first Steelers prioritize Rodgers.
Steelers Prioritize Rodgers Over Wilson
The Pittsburgh Steelers, who recruited Wilson last season, have been heavily interested in signing Aaron Rodgers. Sports Illustrated reports that ESPN's Jeremy Fowler has indicated that the Steelers have made a standing offer to Rodgers and are prepared to wait for him to decide. This leaves Wilson in limbo while Pittsburgh considers him an alternative option if Rodgers opts elsewhere.
"I'm told that Aaron Rodgers has standing offers from both the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Giants, so it's up to him to decide," Fowler told Bleacher Report.
"This is his first foray into free agency in 20 years, so really nobody outside of his inner circle knows exactly what to expect. I get the sense, although this is fluid, the sense that Pittsburgh is willing to wait this out a little bit. Rodgers is their top target, so they'll see where it goes," the reporter added.
The Steelers' inclination towards Rodgers has put Wilson on hold since he still is their plan B. Wilson is now considering other options, with the Giants being a more realistic destination.
Read more: NFL Trade Rumors: Will Levis, Kirk Cousins on the Trade Block, But Are Titans, Falcons Now Ready?
Giants Look at Wilson as Bridge Quarterback
The New York Giants are also in the run for Rodgers but are not closing the door on anything. If Rodgers goes to Pittsburgh or retires, the Giants might shift to Wilson. New York has the No. 3 pick in the next NFL Draft and is likely to think about taking a top quarterback prospect. But if they go with a rookie, Russell Wilson might be used as a bridge quarterback to guide the young quarterback.
Fowler mentioned that Wilson perceives the Giants as a more desirable choice at this free agency moment.
Steelers Face Draft Limitations
Pittsburgh's draft position makes their quarterback situation more complicated. The Steelers have the No. 21 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, putting them out of range for the top quarterback candidates.
Without trading up, they will not get a future franchise quarterback. Because of this, acquiring a proven veteran such as Rodgers or holding onto Wilson becomes a more feasible option.
Surprisingly, the Steelers have recently interviewed Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe before his pro day in Tuscaloosa, indicating they are interested in scouting out draft possibilities despite their poor draft standing.
Giants' Draft Plan Might Determine Wilson's Destiny
The Giants, on the other hand, are in a better draft situation. With the No. 3 overall selection, they might get a high-end quarterback prospect in Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, or Jayden Daniels.
If the Giants take a quarterback, they might still sign Wilson to give them a veteran presence and mentor the young quarterback through his early years.
Wilson's Decision Depends on Rodgers' Decision
It's all about the waiting game at this moment. Clearly, Wilson's decision will change depending on Rodgers' decision. There are only two options for Wilson to be the key quarterback: return to the Steelers or test his talent elsewhere.
© Copyright 2025 Sports World News, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
