“Thus Steelers’ tender offer to protect themselves”: NFL Analyst floats Aaron Rodgers conspiracy theory as Bo Nix injury worsens

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a rare move to start the week, placing the UFA tender on Aaron Rodgers before Monday’s post-draft deadline. The UFA tender preserves the Steelers’ right to receive a compensatory draft pick if Rodgers signs with another team.

It will also limit his chances to sign with a different franchise once training camp begins.

In the wake of the Rodgers news, another intriguing update surfaced. Ian Rapoport reported that Bo Nix had a follow-up cleanup procedure on his fractured ankle. That update prompted Steelers reporter Andrew Fillipponi to come up with a “conspiracy theory” about why the Steelers used an option that’s barely used in today’s NFL.

“Conspiracy theory: Bo Nix injury and recovery is worse than originally feared,” he tweeted. “Now the Steelers are worried Aaron Rodgers might weigh an offer from the Broncos. Thus the tender offer yesterday to protect themselves in the event he leaves them high and dry.”

Nix saw his season ended during the divisional round of the 2025 playoffs. The Broncos moved past the Buffalo Bills, but they lost Nix for the remainder of the playoffs, costing them the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots.

A lot has been said about this situation, and it seems that there’s some secrecy to it.

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Denver media rejected initial reports linking Aaron Rodgers with the Broncos

Filiponi’s words should be taken with a pinch of salt. For starters, he presented it as a conspiracy theory. Additionally, multiple reports rejected the notion that the Broncos were interested in Rodgers.

After Jordan Schultz said Nix would be QB1 at training camp, Denver media also chimed in, denying that Sean Payton’s team was considering that move.

“Aaron Rodgers is not coming to Denver for a visit. When the Broncos take the field to start OTAs, they will be quarterbacked by Bo Nix. Carry on,” Nick Kosmider of The Athletic wrote.

“There is ‘less than a zero percent chance’ Aaron Rodgers will visit with the Broncos, per source,” Zac Stevens tweeted. “It’s April Fools and that story is completely false.”

Things change quickly in the NFL. Time will tell if this is another case.