Steelers Secure Future with Rare Tag on QB Aaron Rodgers Amid Draft Drama
After the Pittsburgh Steelers faced a setback by being overtaken by the Philadelphia Eagles for the right to draft USC wide receiver Makai Lemon, they took proactive measures regarding free agent quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The Steelers placed the rarely used right-of-first-refusal tag on Rodgers, as reported by CBS NFL Insider Jonathan Jones. This move allows Rodgers to receive a salary increase of approximately 10%, raising his 2026 earnings to around $15 million, up from $13.65 million in 2025. Key points of this strategic decision include: The Steelers can match any contract offer made to Rodgers by another team. If Rodgers remains unsigned when training camp begins, Pittsburgh retains exclusive negotiating rights with the four-time NFL MVP. Should he sign elsewhere, the Steelers become eligible for a compensatory draft pick in 2027. While the use of this tender is uncommon, it has historical precedent. The New England Patriots employed a similar tender on running back LeGarrette Blount in the 2017 offseason after he led the NFL with 18 rushing touchdowns in 2016. However, Blount ultimately left for the Philadelphia Eagles despite the tender.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-04-28