Two of the biggest quarterbacks in the NFL are still in contract limbo, as the rest of the league is still catching its breath after the draft. Lamar Jackson, who signed a record-breaking $260 million contract less than two years ago, just had an MVP season and is already back in contract negotiations with the Ravens. Conversely, Aaron Rodgers, a 41-year-old free agent, is reportedly considering a late-career move to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Both quarterbacks attended the 152nd running of the Derby. Held at Churchill Downs in Louisville. It was like a break from the craziness of the boardroom and decision-making. Not only do horses garner media attention during the Kentucky Derby, but it also serves as a silent meeting place for high-stakes fashion, celebrity appearances, and off-field NFL narratives. Aaron Rodgers and Lamar Jackson both wore extravagant outfits. While silently bearing the burden of contract rumours.

Lamar Jackson saw the trip to Louisville as a return trip. A trip to the city where he rose to fame in college football. Jackson was a standout player at the University of Louisville from 2015 to 2017. It’s when he won the Heisman Trophy in 2016 and had his No. 8 jersey retired. This weekend, instead of wearing pads, he made a comeback wearing a black and white suit pant set with diamond jewellery, red and white Nike trainers and a striking black fur hat. Oh—and, like a character from a cutting-edge Western, he carried a wooden stick. His caption on Instagram? “🐎 I’m ready for today.” The Derby couldn’t have asked for a more Lamar entry.

Whereas Rodgers was in typical Rodgers attire. A white shirt, a fitted suit, and mirrored sunglasses. At Churchill Downs, he watched from the luxury of the covered stands. Not letting the opportunity pass, NBC’s Ahmed Fareed said, “Still looking for a team, but maybe he’s got his Derby horse right now.” Rodgers appeared to be enjoying the break before the next play. Despite the fact that his football future is uncertain.

Behind the Derby glam: Lamar Jackson wants more, Aaron Rodgers wants in

Jackson signed a five-year, $260 million megadeal with the Ravens just two years ago. He was the highest-paid player in NFL history at the time. In the present day, Jackson’s average yearly pay already places him eighth in the league. Baltimore is aggressively paving the way for a new extension because quarterback contracts are moving more quickly than a Derby sprint.

Head coach John Harbaugh acknowledged that early talks are taking place during the NFL Owners meeting, saying, “There’s been conversations about that internally… you just kind of got to manage that dance, that salary cap dance, and Lamar is the main part of that because he’s the franchise player.” Conversations with Jackson are still going on, General Manager Eric DeCosta added, noting that the two respect each other and communicate openly. Jackson’s new floor might be the new quarterback deal ceiling, which is now held by Josh Allen at $55 million per year.

While Rodgers’ status is clear, according to the Daily Mail, the Steelers are anticipated to make a move soon. Rodgers has stated that any future commitment would need careful personal thought, and Pittsburgh remains the only NFL team without a definitive starting quarterback. Rodgers recently told reporters, “I’m in a different phase of my life… to make a commitment to a team is a big thing.” The hesitancy is about life beyond football, not football itself. However, in the upcoming weeks, Rodgers’ ambition to take the lead and the Steelers’ necessity might still coincide.

So two NFL quarterbacks were seen waiting—one for a decision on legacy, the other for a boost in value—while the Derby horses raced towards the finish line. Jackson sees the future as having the ability to reset the market once more. For Rodgers, it might be his final voyage in a final city to wrap up one of the most erratic NFL careers ever. And as both walked the Kentucky turf, fans couldn’t help but wonder—not who won the race, but who’s up next for the bigger contract play.