The Athletic's Michael Silver, Dianna Russini and Alec Lewis reported on March 15 it was "possible" that Rodgers could opt to retire rather than join the Steelers or New York Giants. That was at a point when the Giants were still in on Rodgers, but they pivoted by bringing in Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston a short time later.

It would have been the perfect Pittsburgh introduction for Aaron Rodgers. And it would have made perfect sense. Rodgers, who makes weekly in-season appearances on Pat McAfee's show, could have shown up at McAfee's live event in Pittsburgh on Wednesday night and announced to Steelers fans and the rest of the world that Rodgers is signing with the Steelers.