2025 NFL Free Agency Day 4 Recap: Steelers Strategize QB Backup While Awaiting Aaron Rodgers

The fourth day of the 2025 NFL free agency was calmer compared to the earlier days, but still featured key signings that will affect the upcoming season.

One highlight was the Washington Commanders, who re-signed veteran receivers a day after bringing back backup quarterback Marcus Mariota. The defending Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, added a veteran rusher. Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders welcomed back former Pro Bowl running back Raheem Mostert, and the New England Patriots bid farewell to a long-time franchise icon.

Amidst all this buzz, the spotlight remains on Aaron Rodgers, who has yet to announce his decision. As teams, including the New York Giants, await his choice, the Pittsburgh Steelers secured another quarterback—Mason Rudolph—who could fill in as a temporary leader if Rodgers doesn’t join them.

Rudolph’s return to the Steelers marks an interesting twist. Originally drafted to succeed Ben Roethlisberger in 2018, he signed a two-year, $8 million deal after a year with the Titans. This gives the Steelers a solid backup plan if they don’t land Rodgers. If he does come aboard, Rudolph can step back into a supportive role, where he has shown promise with an 8-4-1 record as a starter.

In other notable moves, the Commanders re-signed offensive players to build a familiar environment for their young quarterback, Jayden Daniels. This included retaining receivers Noah Brown and KJ Osborn, both of whom hold significant experience. Mariota’s re-signing brings what they hope to be a stabilizing presence to the roster.

On the flip side, the Houston Texans faced criticism for their recent offensive line adjustments. By trading away Kenyon Green and bringing in guards who struggled in pass protection, experts suggest they may be setting themselves up for further challenges. According to recent stats, the new acquisitions—Laken Tomlinson and Ed Ingram—ranked poorly in performance last season, which raises concerns for quarterback C.J. Stroud.

In a surprising move, the Eagles signed Josh Uche to bolster their defense. While Uche has had moments of brilliance, such as his 11.5 sacks in 2022, last year he struggled, amassing only two sacks. This signing raised eyebrows, considering other more effective pass rushers remain available.

Lastly, Nick Minshew, once again a free agent, found a new home in Kansas City. This opportunity not only pairs him with star quarterback Patrick Mahomes but also places him under the guidance of head coach Andy Reid, known for maximizing quarterback potential. Given Minshew’s tendency to face issues with turnovers, this could be a pivotal time in his career.

This evolving narrative of free agency highlights uncertainty and opportunity for many players. As teams make strategic decisions, the upcoming season could see familiar faces in new roles, while some veterans continue the search for their next chapter in the NFL.

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