Aaron Rodgers Says Pending Decision Not about Money: ‘I’ll Play for $10M’
Free agent quarterback Aaron Rodgers said that he has not demanded a two-year commitment from teams including the Pittsburgh Steelers, that his lack of a decision on his future is not about seeking for more financial compensation, and that he’s willing to play for $10 million per season.
“It ain’t about the money,” Rodgers said in an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show on Thursday. “I’ll play for 10Ms. I don’t care. I never once said I needed a multi-year deal.”
Rodgers had been set to earn $37.5 million per season on his previous contract with the New York Jets, so playing for $10 million would be a significant pay cut.
Rodgers also debunked the notion that he’s waiting to hear from the Minnesota Vikings, put forth by many including former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.
Rodgers explained the reasoning for his lack of a decision as things going on in his personal life, and said that he has not yet committed to playing in 2025, let alone making a decision on a specific free agent destination.
“I’m open to anything and attached to nothing,” he said. “Retirement still could be a possibility. … Right now my focus is, and has been, and will continue to be on my personal life.”
Rodgers also talked about his visit with the Steelers in March, and said he’s been up front with the team about his personal timeframe for making a decision. He said he’s been in continued talks with head coach Mike Tomlin in interim and that the Steelers haven’t placed a deadline on him.
“There’s been no deadline,” he said. “I’ve talked to Mike T many times.”
Rodgers also talked about his workout session with Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf in California — all signs that point to his interest in playing in Pittsburgh — but did not end by revealing any hints about his future decision.
“I don’t think it’s fair to the Steelers or anyone to make a decision while I’m dealing with a lot on the field,” Rodgers said.