**Aaron Rodgers Likely to Join Pittsburgh Steelers as Free Agency Options Dwindle**

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, Aaron Rodgers faces a critical juncture in his career. The four-time NFL MVP is narrowing down his options in free agency, with the Pittsburgh Steelers emerging as the most plausible destination. Former NFL quarterback Matt Hasselbeck discussed Rodgers' situation on 'The Herd' with Colin Cowherd, emphasizing the limited choices available to the seasoned quarterback.

Hasselbeck noted that while Rodgers showed interest in the Minnesota Vikings, the team appears committed to J.J. McCarthy, their first-round draft pick from Michigan, who missed his entire rookie season in 2024 due to a knee injury. "The quarterback free agency situation when you're at the end of your career, it's very similar to musical chairs. There's only a certain amount of chairs, and when the music stops, the music stops," said Hasselbeck. "Aaron Rodgers is going to be with the Pittsburgh Steelers. All this other talk about all these other teams, it's not happening. It needs to be mutual acceptance. The music's about to stop here, and he's going to have to sit down or get out."

Minnesota's head coach Kevin O'Connell and general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah have both expressed confidence in McCarthy for the upcoming season. Despite their high regard for Rodgers, they are focused on developing their young quarterback. O’Connell mentioned that the team did evaluate Rodgers as a potential starter but ultimately decided to give McCarthy the shot he deserves after showing promise during his recovery period.

Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers have shown significant interest in Rodgers. The franchise, which already has veteran Mason Rudolph and former Ohio State star Will Howard, is willing to patiently wait for Rodgers' decision. Rodgers acknowledged multiple conversations with the Steelers and expressed his respect for long-time coach Mike Tomlin. Steelers owner Art Rooney II has also indicated the team's readiness to wait for Rodgers, emphasizing their commitment to potentially securing a high-caliber quarterback for the upcoming season.

Rodgers has been transparent in his discussions with the Steelers, stating on "The Pat McAfee Show" that he does not wish to hold the team hostage. "I've been upfront with them," Rodgers said. "If you need to move on, by all means.... I am trying to be open to everything and not specifically attached to anything."

As the deadline for his decision looms, all signs point towards Rodgers potentially donning a Steelers jersey, marking a new chapter in his illustrious career.