Aaron Rodgers, a four-time MVP quarterback, has signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, ending months of uncertainty about his future. The 41-year-old will join the team ahead of next week’s mandatory minicamp. According to sources, Rodgers plans to fly to Pittsburgh on Friday and was linked with the Steelers throughout the offseason after they lost Russell Wilson and Justin Fields as free agents.
The deal sets up a Week 1 showdown between Rodgers and his former team, the Jets, who will host the Steelers in their season opener. The Steelers never wavered in their belief that Rodgers would eventually sign with them, with coach Mike Tomlin reportedly happy to work within Rodgers’ timeline.
Rodgers was released by the Jets in March after a contentious meeting with new coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey. He spent 18 seasons with the Green Bay Packers before joining the Jets, but his performance was uneven last season. The Steelers, meanwhile, added quarterback Will Howard in the sixth round of the NFL draft.
The deal improves Pittsburgh’s odds in the betting market, making them a +500 favorite to win the AFC North and a 3-point favorite in their season opener against the Jets. Rodgers’ signing marks a significant change for the team, which is looking to rebuild after underperforming on offense last season.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45459152/aaron-rodgers-plans-sign-steelers-sources-say