The Steelers have executed a rare contract maneuver that all but guarantees Aaron Rodgers will play in Pittsburgh—or nowhere—in 2026.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Steelers placed the right of first refusal tag on the quarterback, meaning that Rodgers can accept a 10% raise off of last year’s salary (paying him $15 million next season). As Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer points out, the move allows Pittsburgh to match any offer sheet that Rodgers should sign with another team, and would also give them a compensatory pick if he ultimately leaves.
