Why a 2-year deal may make sense for Steelers, Aaron Rodgers
The Steelers may balance cost and flexibility by spreading Aaron Rodgers’ next deal, easing cap pressure while keeping him in the mix.
The Pittsburgh Steelers and Aaron Rodgers may be headed toward a financial standoff, but a two-year deal could offer a practical solution for both sides. Rodgers played the 2025 season on a team-friendly one-year, $13. 65 million contract and delivered steady production with 3,322 yards and 24 touchdowns.
Now, expectations have shifted. Former Steelers quarterback Charlie Batch suggested Rodgers’ camp could be eyeing something closer to $30 million annually, creating a gap Pittsburgh must navigate carefully. That is where contract structure becomes key.
Rather than committing fully to a high salary in one season, spreading money across two seasons could ease the burden. As Tim Benz explained on “ Beyond the Bylines ,” “I think you get to the point when 30 million might be around the point where you just don't throw it all in one season. You could put 14 million into one season, but if you put 30 million, you might have to defer some of it, make it a two-year deal, so you have some phony ability to brush it off towards next year.
” With roughly $30 million in cap space, Pittsburgh has flexibility, but not without limits. A two-year structure allows the team to stay competitive now while managing future risk, and gives Rodgers the financial respect he is likely seeking. This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Aaron Rodgers contract: Why potential 2-year deal fits Steelers