The NFL free agency period officially starts in just one week and the Pittsburgh Steelers still don't have a clear answer on what their quarterback room will look like next season. Future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers took the mantle as the team's starter last season and led the Steelers to the AFC North title in the process. However, the Steelers would prefer that Rodgers makes his decision very soon, so they have the flexibility in free agency for other options if he decides to retire or play elsewhere. One week out from free agency, Pittsburgh is seemingly still in the dark.
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Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) prepares to unleash a pass as the team works out in front of a packed house during the annual Friday Night Lights practice at 2025 training camp in Latrobe, PA.
The Steelers' rollercoaster ride that was the 2025 season featured a veteran-led team that rallied around both former head coach Mike Tomlin and Rodgers. The veteran quarterback and coach's respect for each other and ability to galvanize the team was evident. On Wednesday, Rodgers spoke on his time in the Steel City on The Pat McAfee Show.
"I had a blast," Rodgers said. "We talked about this, when your off-the-field stuff is not an escape, it's a blessing, it's a refuge, it's a home, you can just play and enjoy the heck out of everything. To be able to go home after work and have that part so locked in and so special and such a refuge, made every year even more fun... It was a fun group of guys, and I really enjoyed my time."
After the Steelers and Tomlin parted ways following their playoff loss to the Houston Texans, it was widely expected that Rodgers wouldn't return as well. However, everything changed when the Steelers brought in new head coach Mike McCarthy. Rodgers and McCarthy have a great relationship, including a Super Bowl victory together with the Green Bay Packers. To be able to end his career once again with McCarthy and his high-flying offense could entice Rodgers to return for another season, especially considering how well he spoke of his time in Pittsburgh.
Associated Press
Steelers' new head coach Mike McCarthy catching up with his former quarterback Aaron Rodgers while coaching the Dallas Cowboys.
The Steelers know what they're getting with Rodgers if he returns. While he's limited in terms of his mobility at this point in his career, his arm is as live as ever, and his decision-making is still among the best in the NFL. However, it was evident at times last season that the lack of mobility held the offense back, and in McCarthy's offense that regularly features spread formations and three-receiver sets, Rodgers won't have the luxury that he had last season of extra offensive linemen or two tight end sets to help block for him.
Steelers Have Limited Quarterback Options For This Season
What makes the Rodgers decision so important is the lack of viable options the Steelers have at quarterback for 2026. They are a win-now team that is frequently in the playoffs, but is trying to break a dreadful 0-7 playoff skid. Last year's sixth-round draft pick Will Howard has drawn some headlines this offseason, with many around the Steelers organization speaking highly of him. Howard spent his rookie season learning under Rodgers, but he hasn't played in an NFL game yet, and the jury is still out on Howard as an NFL starter. This year's NFL Draft is considered a weak one at the quarterback position, as well as this year's free agency class. Howard may be the guy for the Steelers if Rodgers decides not to return.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (X: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Steelers quarterbacks Aaron Rodgers (8) and Will Howard (18) during 2025 training camp in Latrobe, PA.
Rodgers speaking so highly of his time with the Steelers last year is definitely a positive for the team's chances of retaining him for next season. This would give the Steelers the stability at the quarterback position that they're looking for, and give Howard another year to learn behind Rodgers and develop. With free agency set to begin in a week, the clock is ticking.
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