Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
Las Vegas Raiders’ Maxx Crosby, who recently championed the idea of Aaron Rodgers joining him in Nevada and foresaw a successful season for the quarterback, now believes Rodgers, 41, may have concluded his NFL career. This NFL news comes as speculation intensifies around Aaron Rodgers’ future.
Crosby’s Prediction: Rodgers to Retire
In a surprising declaration on his podcast, ‘The Rush’, Crosby suggests that the former New York Jets quarterback is likely to retire from professional football amidst ongoing speculation regarding potential interest from teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Steelers and Giants Considered Options for Rodgers
Rodgers reportedly visited the Steelers earlier in March, evaluating potential opportunities. Prior to that, the New York Giants were also considered a possible destination, however, they ultimately signed Russell Wilson earlier in the week.
Crosby interprets these developments as signs that Rodgers, considered one of the game’s all-time greats, is preparing to step away from the sport.
‘I Think He Retires’: Crosby’s Reasoning
‘I think he retires,’ Crosby stated emphatically. ‘I think he retires. The fact that he isn’t with Davante Adams – one of his preferred receivers – and his unfamiliarity with Pittsburgh, it just makes me feel like… I don’t know, I feel like he retires.’
Maxx Crosby speculates Aaron Rodgers will retire instead of joining the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Crosby continued, ‘He’s nearing 42 now (Rodgers turns 42 in December). While I initially thought joining the Steelers made sense – considering their need for a veteran quarterback, a proven player – I just don’t see it materializing. I can’t picture him in a Pittsburgh uniform. My mind can’t reconcile that.’
‘For the league’s sake, I believe it’s better when Rodgers is playing. I’m a Rodgers admirer; I deeply respect him and consider him an exceptional player.’
‘However, I sense a shift. His unusual silence leads me to believe he’s going to retire. That’s my bold prediction.’
Rodgers’ Recent Team Changes
Rodgers was released by the Jets after Aaron Glenn’s appointment as head coach earlier this year.
Subsequently, the Jets organization signed Justin Fields to assume the quarterback position for the 2025 season.
The Minnesota Vikings were also mentioned as a potential team for Rodgers, but they now seem inclined to proceed with JJ McCarthy as their starting quarterback, focusing on future planning.
Raiders Secure Crosby’s Future
In related Raiders news, Crosby signed a new contract extension worth $106.5 million in March.
Retaining the defensive end in Las Vegas is a crucial element of the team’s restructuring efforts spearheaded by Tom Brady.
The Raiders have also brought in Pete Carroll as head coach and traded for Geno Smith to be their quarterback – diverging from Crosby’s expressed desire to play alongside Rodgers.