Replacement refs could have surprise impact on Aaron Rodgers' retirement decision with Steelers
Pittsburgh seems to be operating one way on this.
Replacement refs could have surprise impact on Aaron Rodgers' retirement decision with Steelers originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . The Pittsburgh Steelers seem to be operating as if they expect Aaron Rodgers to push off retirement and return to be their starting QB in 2026.
They haven't made any other quarterback moves this offseason, and so if Rodgers were to not come back, it could throw a wrench into their plans. And apparently, the potential for replacement refs could have a big impact on this. For those who haven't kept up to speed on this -- the NFL is due to reach a new collective bargaining agreement this offseason with the NFL Referees Association.
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported on Wednesday that the NFL is already laying the groundwork to potentially hire replacement officials if they can't reach a new CBA in time for the season ahead. That in and of itself can bring about plenty of thoughts about the NFL's priorities and finances and whatever else you might think about, but apparently, it may also matter specifically to Rodgers. This is what ESPN's Brooke Pryor wrote on X late Wednesday night as it pertains to the future Hall of Fame QB: "Something I’ve been thinking about w/ possibility of replacement refs — does this affect Aaron Rodgers’ decision?
He’s been vocal about his frustration with them and even mentioned it several times last year. Seems fair to wonder if he’d want to deal with that in his last season. " MORE: E agles' new signing flew himself as a pilot to Philadelphia That's a fascinating potential butterfly effect of something that you wouldn't initially expect to have an impact on a big decision like Rodgers' retirement.