Nov 16, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Will Howard (18) talks with quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images Aaron Rodgers could be part of the plan at quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, but the franchise appears likely to enter the 2026 NFL Draft on Thursday without a strong indication of whether the 42-year-old plans to play next season.
Rodgers said he’s open to a reunion with former Packers coach Mike McCarthy, who was hired to replace Mike Tomlin as head coach, and Steelers general manager Omar Khan implied he would know where Rodgers stands before the draft. Owner Art Rooney II also framed the expectations of the franchise for Rodgers’ decision included the pre-draft timeline.
But NFL Network reported Monday the Steelers are still on hold for the call from Rodgers.
Rodgers signed a one-year deal with the Steelers after the 2025 draft and pointed to Tomlin as one of the primary motivators for picking Pittsburgh. If he has other available options, the free agent hasn’t tipped his hand.
Rodgers passed for 3,322 yards and 24 touchdowns in helping lead the Steelers to the AFC North division title in 2025.
McCarthy is reportedly high on former Ohio State quarterback Will Howard, who was the QB1 for the Steelers at minicamp on Monday.
The Steelers acquired wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. from the Colts to pair with No. 1 target D.K. Metcalf.
Organized team activities begin in mid-May and the Steelers’ mandatory minicamp is June 2-4.
–Field Level Media
