
The Pittsburgh Steelers applied a UFA tender to Aaron Rodgers, potentially allowing them to receive compensation if he leaves. This decision may also positively impact Drew Allar's future with the team.
Mentioned in this story
(IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
I'm not sure about all the questions about what the Pittsburgh Steelers are doing with Aaron Rodgers after applying the UFA tender to him to make sure they would get something in return if he decides to leave.
It seems like things are in a very different position than many expected. However, questions don't seem to be leaving anytime soon. It was recently spoken about by higher-ups in the Steelers organization, including Art Rooney.
"The main thing that the tender gives us is potential for a comp pick if Aaron would choose to go to another team," Rooney II said in an interview on NFL Network, per ESPN. "We don't expect that, but by the same token, you never know. And it's just something that we had an opportunity to protect if needed."
Beyond that, others in the Pittsburgh media are a bit uncertain why the organization did this, but the positive part here is that it's expected that they told Rodgers about the decision.
“I don't have all of the information yet on why the Steelers did this, but I will tell you this: I would be surprised if they did not notify Rodgers they were going to do this before they did it. If they didn't, then the relationship is fractured and all of the positive signs of Rodgers returning might have to be reevaluated.
“I also like the Bernard and Dunker picks. Here's the thing about Allar: QBs are always pushed up boards because it's the most important position on the team. And in a year you have three third-round picks, it makes perfect sense to use one on a developmental QB. No one is saying Allar is the future franchise QB. They're going to develop him and we'll see if McCarthy can get more out of him. My hesitation with the pick is I don't know if a coach can develop the "It" factor -- that intangible presence all great QBs seem to have,” Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette wrote.
I'm not saying the Steelers should really worry too much about making Rodgers happy, as the guy is much older at this point in his career and just not the same player that he once was at 42 years old. However, we've also seen Rodgers be petty in the past, and the last thing the Steelers want to do is try to out-petty someone who has proven that he won't lose those types of wars.
The UFA tender allows the Steelers to receive compensation, such as a compensatory draft pick, if Aaron Rodgers decides to leave the team.
If Aaron Rodgers leaves, it could create opportunities for Drew Allar to take on a more significant role within the Steelers' roster.
Art Rooney mentioned that the tender provides potential for a compensatory pick if Rodgers chooses to go to another team, though they do not expect that outcome.

Don't miss the Hearts vs Rangers match! Here's how to watch live.
Kimi Antonelli dominates in China and Japan, leading the championship!
How to watch Everton vs Manchester City: Channel and kick-off time
Barcelona's Ferran Torres to be Spain's third captain at FIFA World Cup 2026.
Chelsea may change their lineup against Nottingham Forest, with Palmer starting.
See every story in Sports — including breaking news and analysis.