Steelers Show No Panic As Team Already Knows Aaron Rodgers’ 2026 Decision

The Pittsburgh Steelers are in yet another waiting game with their starting quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, and what his career decision will be. Pittsburgh waited until June 2025 to make it official with Rodgers last year, and that timetable is one that fans would like to avoid at all costs this go-around. The organization is patiently awaiting the four-time MVP's official decision and hopes that he will make his choice ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. Rodgers was seen in Pittsburgh before his announcement in June last year, but this time, he seems to be more reserved about his choice. The Steelers had some preliminary meetings with him before signing last season, but so far, it's yet to be seen this offseason. 

Rodgers' decision came very late last year, even though it was widely speculated he would sign in the Steel City during the early parts of the offseason. It wouldn't be a shock if the two sides are having conversations, just like before. The 42-year-old signal caller led the Steelers to an AFC North division title and a home playoff berth in his first season in the Black and Gold. Rodgers played some good football for Pittsburgh, and the opportunity to run it back with the added weapons from this offseason is intriguing. 

Steelers beat reporter Mark Kaboly had a message to fans about Rodgers' decision that indicated a reunion could be in the process. 

"I believe the Steelers know already, or at least have a really good idea, that he’s coming back. They think they will hear something definitely before the Draft. Trust me, he’s coming back, so don’t overthink this," wrote Kaboly. 

The Steelers made it a point of emphasis this offseason to add more weapons for their quarterbacks. Rodgers will have much better ammunition in the receiver room, and trying again under a familiar head coach could make it a no-brainer for him to come back. The Steelers will be offense-minded under newly hired head coach, Mike McCarthy, and this is just another bonus for Rodgers. 

Rodgers will come back to a loaded offense and a game plan that suits him. He played under McCarthy before with the Green Bay Packers and even won a Super Bowl with him. Pittsburgh has geared up to intrigue Rodgers back to the team with their latest additions, and by the looks of it are thinking they really have a shot at bringing him back. The veteran ended his season with Pittsburgh, throwing a rare pick six, and frustrations were clear with the lack of offense.

Now, the Steelers have made it a point to spend on the offense and brought in key additions like Michael Pittman Jr. and Rico Dowdle. Rodgers will now have a solid number two receiver to pair alongside DK Metcalf. With McCarthy, the Steelers' offense will more than likely be a lot better than in 2025, and will set up Rodgers for success. Pittsburgh is still looking for its first playoff win since the 2016 season, and has made strides to get back to its winning ways this offseason. 

Steelers Have To Take A Look At Other Options

The Steelers have confidence in their second-year quarterback, Will Howard, despite him not having any NFL snaps. However, the team passed up on some of the league's top free agent talent at the position. If, for some reason, Rodgers decides to hang it up, the Steelers need to have a plan in place for other options. Howard is certainly one of them and could be next in line. 

If the Steelers brass isn't confident in handing the starting job to Howard, they would be in the market for a veteran at the spot. This year's draft is considered by many to be weak at quarterback, and if Rodgers calls it quits, then an attempt with a young arm could be in play. Otherwise, an aging veteran bridge quarterback would be in order. Kirk Cousins is still available and could be an option for that role. Rodgers' decision holds a lot of implications on how the Steelers will make choices going forward, but they have received good news on him, as mentioned earlier.

#SteelerNation