Overview
- Steelers owner Art Rooney II said Rodgers signed to play for Mike Tomlin and indicated the coach’s departure will most likely affect the quarterback’s decision about returning.
- Aaron Rodgers said after the 30-6 wild-card loss that he will ponder retirement and will not make an emotional decision about his future.
- Reports from The Athletic described an emotional team meeting where Rodgers, through sobs, told Tomlin “I’m sorry,” as T.J. Watt and others reacted in disbelief in a scene likened to a funeral.
- Rooney said the quarterback position will be a key topic with head-coach candidates, and Ben Roethlisberger publicly urged the franchise to consider an offensive-minded hire.
- Tom Brady advised that only Rodgers can decide if he wants the year-round commitment to keep playing, and Kevin Durant publicly expressed support for whichever path Rodgers chooses, as analysts note his options to continue may be limited.