Astronomical Expectation For Steelers’ New Contract With Aaron Rodgers Revealed

Pittsburgh Steelers fans are likely tired of consistently hearing and reading about quarterback Aaron Rodgers. He performed well for the organization in 2025, but the team fell short of expectations and did not win a playoff game after an AFC North championship. He waited until June to put pen to paper, and it appears as if the same will hold true for 2026. The veteran is known to not appreciate offseason workouts, so if his mind is made up and he wants to return to play in the Steel City, a contract may not be signed until after Organized Team Activities (OTAs) occur.

The vast majority of football fans and media have speculated that the 42-year-old is simply mulling over the idea of retirement. It wouldn't be shocking if Rodgers decided to walk away from the game, but it still seems like he has some unfinished business with the Steelers — and new head coach Mike McCarthy. It would be ideal if the franchise had a definitive decision by the 2026 NFL Draft.

One of the biggest assumptions out there is that the quarterback is completely fine accepting the same financial compensation that he had during his first campaign in Pittsburgh. In terms of signal-callers throughout the NFL, he was one of the least expensive who wasn't on a rookie contract in 2025. Now, that could be holding up his commitment to play for the Steelers again.

Charlie Batch is well-connected within the organization and while he doesn't seem to have any personal ties to Rodgers, he noted on a recent episode of Snap Count that the four-time MVP probably wants to get paid for another year in the Steel City.

"I may be the only one saying this at this particular point. This decision is coming down to money," Batch said. "The Steelers would like him to come back, yes, but it's not going to be at the $13 million number. I'm sure Aaron at some point — I have not spoken to him — but I'm sure his representatives are wanting something closer to 30."

The Steelers could certainly work in a one-year deal for Rodgers worth roughly $30 million, but it doesn't mean that it would be a wise investment. The team may be better off simply moving on. Batch said that the goal would be to negotiate something that makes sense for both parties.

"You hope that somewhere you meet in the middle. And if they're able to do so, Aaron will be back, and if not, he's going to walk away and say, you know what, I'm done. And that's why you have not heard this decision at this particular point."

Rodgers may be content with retiring unless Pittsburgh offers to pay up. If this is the case, the situation is a lot more fascinating than fans even realize. The so-called great relationship between the franchise and future Hall of Famer may not be as strong as everyone believed it to be.

The questions will continue to come up regarding Rodgers and the Steelers. He is likely the best option as far as starting quarterbacks go for the team in 2026; however, money may actually be holding everything up.

Batch didn't specifically note that he knew this was a fact, but it's something to keep an eye on moving forward. Rodgers has made a boatload of money in his career, and strong-arming the organization wouldn't necessarily be a great look as the NFL Draft looms.

Steelers Might Not Budge On Money For Rodgers

While Pittsburgh would probably be a better collective in 2026 if Rodgers was under center, it doesn't mean that the front office will be okay with paying the veteran $30 million. There is financial wiggle room, so the hope is that the two sides come to a mutual agreement that works for both of them. It appears, though, as if Rodgers is in line for a bigger payday compared to 2025.

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