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Steelers Use Rare UFA Tender to Shape Aaron Rodgers’ 2026 Options

The move sets a training-camp deadline that protects Pittsburgh’s leverage.

Overview

  • The Steelers placed an unrestricted free-agent right-of-first-refusal tender on Aaron Rodgers on Tuesday, setting a one-year offer of about $15 million that reflects a 10% raise from 2025.
  • An NFL notice to teams says Rodgers may sign anywhere before July 22 or the first day of training camp, after which Pittsburgh holds exclusive negotiating rights.
  • If he signs with another club before that date, the contract can count in the compensatory-pick formula, which could earn the Steelers draft credit under league rules.
  • Team president Art Rooney II said the tender protects a potential comp pick and he expects Rodgers to share a decision in the next few weeks.
  • Pittsburgh drafted Penn State quarterback Drew Allar in the third round and is carrying Mason Rudolph and Will Howard as it waits for the 42-year-old’s plans.