Former GM Sends Steelers a Major Aaron Rodgers Warning

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Evan Massey | Last updated Apr 20, 2025 11:52 AM ET

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been heavily connected to free agent quarterback and future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers. While they have been connected quite often to the legendary quarterback, Rodgers remains a free agent and has not signed.

Earlier this week, Rodgers made an appearance on the "Pat McAfee Show." He revealed that retirement is still very much a potential option he could choose.

Following those comments, there is concern starting to rise among Steelers fans that Rodgers might not become Pittsburgh's starter after all.

One NFL insider and former general manager spoke out with a bold warning to the Steelers about Rodgers following his most recent comments.

Mike Tannenbaum, who is currently an analyst for ESPN, made an appearance on "Get Up" and sent a message to Pittsburgh.

"When a player's talking about being retired, they are retired," he said. "That did not sound like a person that was prepared to be a starting NFL quarterback and the rigors of a 17-game season, which is fine. It's over. If I'm the Steelers, it is over. We're moving on."

Tannenbaum makes a good point. Rodgers seemed to have his mind everywhere but on football.

While he also revealed that he has a lot going on in his personal life, the 2025 NFL draft will occur this week. The Steelers simply cannot afford to keep waiting.

Pittsburgh is the clear-cut favorite to sign Rodgers if he does choose to play football. Another team to keep an eye on could be the New Orleans Saints, who have a concerning injury situation brewing with Derek Carr.

Rodgers doesn't seem close to making a decision. That could change, but the Steelers should look to make another move at the quarterback position with Rodgers' future uncertain.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: