The Steelers initially preferred Matthew Stafford over Aaron Rodgers, a sentiment echoed by the Rams, who ultimately retained Stafford instead of pursuing Rodgers. After failing to acquire Stafford or Justin Fields, the Steelers signed Rodgers, while Rams coach Sean McVay confirmed they would have considered Rodgers had Stafford been traded. McVay emphasized that their main goal was to maintain Stafford, expressing respect for Rodgers and acknowledging past interest in him during the 2021 season, which culminated in the Rams trading for Stafford and winning Super Bowl LVI.
