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As Aaron Rodgers navigates through free agency, his reported contract requirements for interested teams were revealed on Saturday.
Rodgers is seeking an annual salary in the “same general range” as new Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold, according to Michael Silver, Dianna Russini and Alec Lewis of The Athletic. His demands are “not expected to be a major stumbling block” in negotiations, though.
Darnold signed a three-year contract with the Seahawks in free agency that contains an average annual value of $33.5 million.
The Minnesota Vikings, New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers have all been “courting” Rodgers (via Silver, Russini and Lewis).
The 41-year-old became a free agent when the New York Jets officially released him on Wednesday.
Given the reported willingness from potential suitors to meet Rodgers’ contract requests, it would be especially surprising if the Vikings were to sign him to a similar deal compared to Darnold instead of retaining the passer during his own free agency.
Darnold wrapped up a breakout season with Minnesota in 2024, finishing with a record of 14-3 as a starter while throwing for a career-high 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns. He’s also 14 years younger than Rodgers.
The Vikings currently have 2024 first-round pick J.J. McCarthy atop their depth chart, but head coach Kevin O’Connell may be hesitant to enter the 2025 season with a young signal-caller that missed his entire rookie year due to a torn meniscus.
Pittsburgh is also still on the market for a starting quarterback in 2025, with Russell Wilson remaining a free agent. The Steelers are attempting to clinch a third consecutive playoff appearance next season and appear to be interested in an experienced veteran such as Rodgers.
The Giants finished with a mere 3-14 record during their 2024 campaign, but they reportedly have their sights set on the four-time MVP as a starter despite owning the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft.
As Rodgers negotiates with interested teams, his contract demands have been made clear.
