NFL Rumors: Aaron Rodgers 'or Bust for' Steelers; Mason Rudolph is Contingency Plan

The Pittsburgh Steelers are all-in with their efforts to make Aaron Rodgers their quarterback in 2025.

During an appearance on Friday's episode of Get Up, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler said it's Rodgers "or bust for" the Steelers and they're in position to wait on his decision because Mason Rudolph is their contingency plan if it doesn't work out:

"I'm hearing the Pittsburgh Steelers are in a position to wait on Aaron Rodgers. Talking to people around the league, Pittsburgh is the most likely to wait this out. They have a standing offer out to Rodgers, and they already have their contingency plan in the building in Mason Rudolph, a quarterback they drafted and developed over the years. They can play him in a pinch, but they're not looking at a lot of other options right now. It seems to be Rodgers or bust for Pittsburgh."

Rudolph, who spent his first six seasons with the Steelers from 2018 to '23, returned to the organization this offseason by signing a two-year contract in free agency.

Last season with the Tennessee Titans, Rudolph went 1-4 in five starts. He threw for 1,530 yards, nine touchdowns and nine interceptions.

The Steelers are in a difficult position when it comes to their quarterback, at least compared to other teams still looking for help at the position. They first draft pick isn't until No. 21 overall.

By comparison, other quarterback-needy teams like the Cleveland Browns and New York Giants pick second and third, respectively. While it seems unlikely both of them will take quarterbacks that high just given the lack of options, assuming Cam Ward goes No. 1 overall, it's at least on the table for them in a way it's not for Pittsburgh.

The fact that the Steelers have gone this deep into free agency without pivoting to another option like Russell Wilson, who is also being courted by the Giants and Browns, is an indication Rodgers is their preferred target.

Pittsburgh does have a tantalizing package to offer Rodgers at this stage of his career. Head coach Mike Tomlin has a proven track record of success regardless of who the quarterback is.

The addition of DK Metcalf gives the Steelers a dynamic receiving duo, pairing him with George Pickens. Their defense has finished in the top 10 in points allowed in each of the past three seasons.

With the Minnesota Vikings reportedly deciding not to pursue Rodgers and go with J.J. McCarthy as their starter, the Steelers are the best situation for the four-time MVP to walk into if he wants the chance to compete for a playoff spot in 2025.

A free agent for the first time in his career after being released by the New York Jets, Rodgers threw for 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 17 starts last season.