NFL 2025 storyline begins: Aaron Rodgers' future, Brock Purdy's big contract and tush-push controversy

As the dust settles on the 2025 NFL Draft, the league swiftly shifts gears into the next chapter of its ever-churning calendar. Rookies have begun reporting to minicamps, and team facilities are buzzing once again with fresh energy. The NFL, in all its high-stakes drama and business-like precision, has evolved into a year-round operation, leaving little room for downtime. And as we inch closer to training camps in July, several critical storylines are beginning to take shape — each with the potential to reshape the league’s landscape.

Big NFL decisions could change everything next season

The future of the Tush Push in jeopardy

The controversial “tush push” — a modified quarterback sneak made famous by the Philadelphia Eagles — continues to dominate discussions among league decision-makers. What was once a niche strategy has morphed into a nearly unstoppable short-yardage play, prompting both admiration and concern.


At the heart of the debate is whether the play embodies the spirit of football or undermines it. High-ranking NFL officials reportedly believe the play "is not a pure football play" and are pushing for its removal. But for any rule change to pass, it requires a two-thirds majority vote among team owners. As of now, only half of the teams are on board.

Back in March, during the annual league meetings, owners chose to table the decision — signaling not indifference, but the need for further deliberation. Opponents are expected to fine-tune their proposals while gathering data on injury risks. The topic will return to the forefront during the upcoming May 20–21 meetings in Minneapolis. Insiders believe a new rule outlawing the push or pull of ball carriers — an old regulation that was removed in 2005 — might garner widespread support if reintroduced.

Steelers’ Quarterback situation still murky

Meanwhile, in Pittsburgh, the quarterback situation remains as uncertain as ever, with Aaron Rodgers ’ name still floating around the Steel City. The veteran quarterback, who previously showed interest in joining the Minnesota Vikings, has reportedly caught the eye of the Steelers. But his future remains a guessing game.

Rodgers recently acknowledged, “he has been dealing with some personal matters and has no timeline for his decision,” casting further doubt on where he might end up. The Steelers, perhaps bracing for the long haul, only selected a quarterback in the sixth round of the draft — Will Howard from Ohio State — and will continue offseason workouts with Mason Rudolph, Skylar Thompson, and Howard under center.

While coach Mike Tomlin has attempted to downplay the urgency, there’s no denying that the quarterback carousel in Pittsburgh will remain a headline story until Rodgers makes his call.

Brock Purdy poised for big payday

Out west, the San Francisco 49ers find themselves on the brink of securing one of the most heartwarming stories in recent NFL history. Brock Purdy — once dubbed “Mr. Irrelevant” — is now arguably the most relevant player in San Francisco’s future plans.

After nearly leading the team to a Super Bowl victory two seasons ago, Purdy is set to play out the final year of his rookie contract, earning just $5 million — a bargain in today’s quarterback market. However, that is expected to change soon.

Negotiations are reportedly underway to lock Purdy into a deal that could pay him upwards of $50 million per year, placing him among the highest-paid quarterbacks in the league. With tight end George Kittle already extended as the highest-paid player at his position, the 49ers appear committed to keeping their offensive nucleus intact.

For now, the NFL's offseason may lack game-day fireworks, but the moves being made — and the decisions pending — promise to carry just as much impact when the fall finally arrives.

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