PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Is Aaron Rodgers throwing with DK Metcalf a sign of his eventual signing with the Steelers or just another mind game?
The report came from NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo that Rodgers and Metcalf ‘had a throwing session’ over the weekend at UCLA. While not confirmed by Steelers brass at the NFL owners’ meetings, it wasn’t disputed.
Metcalf came to the Steelers from Seattle a couple of weeks ago for a second-round pick. The 27-year-old receiver was then signed a four-year contract extension worth $132 million. Yet he needs a someone to throw him the ball and no player in free agency has accomplished more than Rodgers.
Does this mean its inevitable Rodgers signs with the Steelers? Was Metcalf trying to close the deal for Rodgers as his new quarterback? Is Rodgers trying to send a message to Steelers he’s ready to go, but is waiting on a concession from the team?
Head coach Mike Tomlin only said glowing things about his meeting with Rodgers and getting to know him better. Tomlin said while they want to have it settled, it’s a process sometimes to sign a free agent.
Entering his 19th season, Tomlin downplayed the necessity of having Rodgers signed before the draft or even during voluntary Organized Team Activities, saying those are more teaching times. He even said the line of demarcation is the start of training camp in July.
That would mean the first any of his teammates would work in a team environment with Rodgers would be in Latrobe. You have to say what you have to say in dealing with free agents, but can’t imagine the Steelers would wait until training camp to figure out who their quarterback is, especially in a season they believe they can win.
Mind games and disinformation is sometimes a part of the free agency process, but it’s time. The Steelers need to know about their future. This is not fair to anyone.