As speculation swirls around Aaron Rodgers' next chapter, the Steelers have broken their silence. With key draft decisions unfolding, Pittsburgh has delivered a direct message to the veteran quarterback, and it speaks volumes about their plans under center.

Rodgers, who is still a free agent, has been heavily connected as a primary target for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He is still expected to sign with the Steelers at some point, despite his free agency process dragging out longer than many expected. Just hours before the draft, Rodgers' name has started capturing attention.

Rodgers' continued hesitance to commit to an NFL team next season could potentially increase the odds that the Steelers use the No. 21 pick on Sanders should he slip past other candidates like the New York Giants and Las Vegas Raiders and fall deeper into the first round.