Corliss Waitman shocks NFL by handing over number 8 to Aaron Rodgers without taking a dime

An unexpected moment happened recently between Pittsburgh Steelers punter Corliss Waitman and Hall of Famer quarterback Aaron Rodgers. One is a Hall of Famer, and the other is still trying to make a name for himself.

Fans expected a big exchange of money, maybe even a huge amount. But the younger player did something very unexpected. It wasn’t about cash, fame, or deals. It was about team pride and keeping things simple. This moment is now making headlines and showing fans that some things still matter more than money in today’s game.

Corliss Waitman didn’t charge Aaron Rodgers for jersey number 8

On Monday, June 10, 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ punter Corliss Waitman showed true sportsmanship when quarterback Aaron Rodgers joined the team and requested jersey number eight —a number Corliss Waitman had already been wearing.Corliss Waitman, 29, didn’t ask for any money in return. That’s unusual in the NFL, where players often pay thousands to get their preferred number. But Corliss Waitman simply gave it away.

He told reporters at the team’s minicamp in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, “Just glad my jersey’s got a Pittsburgh Steelers logo on it.”This decision caught attention because Corliss Waitman has only made about $2 million in his NFL career, according to Spotrac, a sports contract website.

In comparison, Aaron Rodgers has earned over $300 million in his career. Still, Corliss Waitman didn’t hesitate. His focus was on the team and winning, not on personal gain.

Aaron Rodgers joins Pittsburgh Steelers, but Corliss Waitman’s choice steals the spotlight

Aaron Rodgers, 40, officially signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers earlier this month during the team’s offseason moves. As he prepares for the 2025 season, Aaron Rodgers wanted to wear the number he had worn before number 8.Corliss Waitman had been using that number since joining the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2024.

But when Aaron Rodgers asked, Corliss Waitman didn’t try to negotiate or hold out for money.

According to those present at the minicamp held at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex on June 10, he handed over the number right away.“I just want to win,” Waitman said when asked about the decision. “I’m proud to wear anything with a Steelers logo on it.” This act of humility is now being praised by fans across social media.Also Read: Aaron Rodgers Drops Bombshell: Secret Wife, Fresh Start, And One Last Shot With The Pittsburgh Steelers