While taking a lengthy test of patience, about 8 weeks to be exact, Aaron Rodgers has already lost the New York Giants, and Kevin O’Connell has still not peeked at his phone to call the veteran to Minnesota. Still, the Pittsburgh Steelers president, Art Rooney, repeatedly claimed to wait a “little while longer” for weeks. Meanwhile, the former NY Jets superstar had already discussed the paperwork, sat down with the Pitts to watch film, and given an overall positive impression. However, what led from that point was not a handshake and ink on the paper but a pin-drop silence. Now, it seems like Mike Tomlin finally lost interest in Rodgers.

If you’re wondering why, it is the possible incoming prospect Shedeur Sanders, who just might flick away Rodgers’ any chances in the Steel City. And with that said, will Maxx Crosby’s prediction of “I feel like he retires. He’s about 42 now,” come true or are more options just opening up for him? Maybe, the Steelers will still sign him despite Sanders. Here’s the latest update.

According to NFL Rumors’ tweet, “The #Steelers are reportely losing PATIENCE with Aaron Rodgers. The #Saints could be a option now with Derek Carr INJURY.” With this information, it is not difficult to connect the dots for exactly what might have happened. Tomlin is seemingly taking his steps back while aiming for a 6-ft-1 standout.

On Thursday, Adam Schefter reported that Shedeur Sanders visited the Steelers facility and the Black and Gold liked his vibes. He even developed a good rapport with the HC Mike Tomlin. Flipping the script, he also only had praises for the team. “I enjoyed my time in Pittsburgh. I connected well with all the coaches, and it was real fun.” More importantly, it was the winning culture that Tomlin has set by visiting the playoffs in 12 of his 18 seasons that has attracted the high draft prospect.

In fact, Shedeur went as far as comparing the HC with his father Deion Sanders while talking to Charlie Strella of the Buffaloes Wire. “I understand the mindset and why they [Pittsburgh] win a lot. Just how he [Tomlin] is as a person, the values that the team has, and what he preaches are similar to my dad.”

Of course, there’s a huge ‘if’ staring at the Pitts right now because Shedeur is projected amongst the top picks in the upcoming draft while the Steelers have the 21st pick on the first day. But some reports suggest that the Pitts might trade up if Sanders drop out of the top 10.

NFL insider Josina Anderson tried to get some news from the AFC North franchise. She claimed, “Meanwhile from a league source on the Steelers: ‘The vibe? I would say it feels a little weird here. The running joke around here right now is ‘who’s going to be our quarterback?’ Now, I wouldn’t say there’s any panic, though; but the current QB depth says what it says.”

However, acknowledging that New Orleans is one of the preferred destinations for Sanders along with Pittsburgh, Noah Strackbein even claimed that “Once Sanders passes New Orleans, things are different. The Steelers may zero in on Sanders and make him their go-to in the first round. That could lead to a trade or simply hoping he falls to them at pick 21.”

The Steelers HC Mike Tomlin has met with many other signal callers. The Crimson Tide’s Jaxson Dart also visited them earlier this week. He is also a magnificent prospect but needs some time and work to rise up to the league level. The franchise wouldn’t mind that. But Sanders seems to be aligning with the franchise more and he has experience of playing in cold having done so in Colorado for two seasons, fitting the bill even better for Tomlin.

All this is happening as the rumors of a new offer or even retirement are running wild for Aaron. While the Steelers are still patiently waiting for him and contemplating alternatives, another team might poach the outcast QB.

Aaron Rodgers might get a new opportunity in New Orleans

The $5.5 billion franchise NO Saints were happy to continue with Derek Carr under center. But with him injured, the team is forced to look for alternatives. With veteran status not a problem, what better option than the Super Bowl winner?

Carr’s shoulder injury and subsequent surgery has caused a storm in the league. But the franchise is more concerned about the $20.5 million cap hit in 2025 (with a $69.2 million hit looming in ’26). In this scenario, they have reportedly turned to Aaron Rodgers. But just like Mike Tomlin (allegedly) made the decision to oust him after a rookie’s visit, a rookie visited the Saints facility as well. It’s the Louisville Cardinals QB Tyler Shough.

Last year, he had an 8-4 record in 12 games with 244 of 389 passes made (62.7% completion rate) for 3,195 passing yards and 23 touchdowns with 6 interceptions. The Saints pick 9th in the draft. However, the bigger issue is, will Aaron Rodgers commit? He wants to play for a team that, in his mind, can win the Super Bowl.

That’s the only reason he was interested in the Vikings. But they didn’t make an offer. Now, his story twists and turns. Will he finally find a place to his liking that likes him back?