Jim Nantz wants Aaron Rodgers to sign with Steelers: 'We need the Steelers to be good'
The Pittsburgh Steelers will often appear on CBS during the 2025 NFL season. If the network's long-time play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz has it his way, it will be with veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers leading the team.
Nantz appeared on NFL Network's schedule release special Wednesday to discuss CBS' broadcast slate for the upcoming season. The 65-year-old, who was preparing to call the PGA Championship starting Thursday, made his pitch for Rodgers to continue his NFL career in Pittsburgh.
"We need the Steelers to be good," Nantz said. "They need you. I saw you play last year. The numbers were really good, a lot better than people gave you credit for."
"I know you can still play," he added. "You get doubled up with Mike Tomlin and T.J. Watt on that defense. I think that would be a great thing."
Rodgers has frequently been tied to the Steelers since the New York Jets released him after two seasons. Steelers owner Art Rooney II has expressed confidence the team may eventually sign him as the 41-year-old quarterback mulls whether he wants to play another NFL season.
Presently, the Steelers have just three quarterbacks on their roster: Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson and rookie sixth-round pick Will Howard. General manager Omar Khan made it clear the team will carry four quarterbacks into training camp, so Pittsburgh seems likely to sign another signal-caller.
Nantz joked he and his colleagues would be willing to sweeten Rodgers' potential deal to ensure he fills the final quarterback slot on Pittsburgh's roster.
"I want you to know that I'm passing the hat here at Quail Hollow, and we're taking up a collection," Nantz joked. "We want to see you in the Steel City this season. And we're willing to contribute, somewhere – I think we can up close to seven figures. You know as a feel-good, sign of appreciation."
Money doesn't seem to be the issue at the forefront of Rodgers' mind. He said during an appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show" he would accept a $10 million salary for the 2025 NFL season should he decide to play.
The Steelers have been willing to be patient as Rodgers has contemplated his decision, but like many, Nantz hopes the ongoing saga will conclude expeditiously.
"Let's get this thing done," Nantz said. "I'm just making a personal appeal. We want you, we need you, and we're looking forward to seeing you."