Aaron Rodgers Rumors: Steelers View Jets QB As 'Good Fit' with OC Arthur Smith

The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly looking to pair up Aaron Rodgers and Arthur Smith next season.

The Steelers believe Rodgers is a "good fit" for Smith's offensive scheme, NFL Network's Cameron Wolfe reported Wednesday.

Wolfe added that the Steelers believe "they have the coaching staff to be able to handle Aaron Rodgers' personality."

"Whether it's Mike Tomlin or Arthur Smith, they feel like they're in a good position there," Wolfe said.

According to Wolfe, the Steelers view incumbent starter Russell Wilson as their "backup plan" if Rodgers signs elsewhere.

Wolfe added that the Steelers "did have interest" in bringing back Justin Fields before the former Pittsburgh quarterback left to join the New York Jets in free agency.

The Steelers' reported confidence in the ability of their coaching staff to work with Rodgers comes after reported tension between coaches and Wilson last season.

Gerry Dulac reported in February for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette that "the audibles and route adjustments Wilson was making at the line of scrimmage were creating a conflict with offensive coordinator Arthur Smith."

Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer more recently said in a Tuesday appearance on The Rich Eisen Show that Wilson's relationship with the Steelers is "not in the best place."

Even if the Steelers see Rodgers as more of a personality match than Wilson, it is unclear if the team can match what the veteran quarterback is seeking.

NBC Sports' Mike Florio reported Wednesday that there is a "gap" between the Steelers and Rodgers' representatives.

ESPN's Jordan Raanan meanwhile reported Wednesday the New York Giants, who have made Rodgers an offer, aren't having money issues and "are just waiting for his decision."

Rodgers, who will turn 42 in December of next season, is the oldest player in the NFL.

He bounced back from the torn Achilles that derailed his 2023 season to play all 17 games for the Jets last season, but visibly lacked the mobility that made him a four-time NFL MVP earlier in his career. Whichever team brings Rodgers in is likely to sign him to a shorter-term bridge deal.