Steelers Keep Rodgers Door Open, Protect Draft Pick

0:00It's April 28th. Welcome to NFL News Today, powered by AI and Ready for Kickoff. The Pittsburgh Steelers just slapped an unrestricted free agent tender on Aaron Rogers, therefore time MVP quarterback. At 42 years old, he's fresh off leading them to an AFC North title last season. This move keeps the door open for his return, but protects the team with a compensatory draft pick if he signs elsewhere before the 2026. Team brass, including GM Omar Khan and coach Mike McCarthy, are super optimistic about Rogers coming back. They've kept lines wide open since the season ended, and even drafting Penn State star Drew Aller in the third round didn't change their plans for him. Rogers has been non-committal, saying he'd decide down the line, and he didn't give clarity before the NFL draft like the Steelers hoped. Last year, he skipped all organized team activities, and only in a one-year deal right after minicamp. The tender doesn't block him from other offers before July 22nd, but after training camp

1:02starts late July, Pittsburgh gets exclusive, negotiating rights. Plus, it'd bump his salary 10% over last years if he stays for season 22. Organized team activities kickoff May 18th, with mandatory minicamp June 2nd through 4th. Eyes run weather Rogers shows early this time, but for now, the Steelers are playing at smart, balancing hope with a safety net.