Aaron Rodgers' Uncertain Future Leaves Steelers in Limbo Ahead of NFL Free Agency

The veteran quarterback's decision on his playing future could significantly impact the Steelers' offseason plans.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Pittsburgh Steelers are waiting to see if veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers will return for the 2026 NFL season, but according to ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler, Rodgers is not expected to make a quick decision on his future. Fowler reported that both Rodgers and the Steelers are open to a potential return, but Rodgers tends to take his time on such matters, leaving the Steelers in a state of uncertainty as they prepare for free agency and the draft.

Why it matters

The Steelers' quarterback situation is a critical factor in their offseason plans, as they must determine whether to re-sign Rodgers, develop their current backup Will Howard, or potentially draft a new quarterback. Rodgers' decision could significantly impact the team's free agency strategy and draft priorities.

The details

According to Fowler, Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy, who previously worked with Rodgers in Green Bay, likes the veteran quarterback and sees him as a potential "bridge option" for the team. However, the Steelers have also been looking hard at quarterbacks in the 2026 draft, suggesting they may be preparing for a future without Rodgers.

  • On Saturday, ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler reported on Rodgers' uncertain future.

The players

Aaron Rodgers

A veteran quarterback who is currently a free agent and is considering his options for the 2026 NFL season, including a potential return to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Mike McCarthy

The head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who previously worked with Aaron Rodgers during his time as the head coach of the Green Bay Packers.

Will Howard

The current backup quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, who the team is considering as a potential option to take over the starting role if Rodgers does not return.

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What they’re saying

“Both sides are open to a potential return. Aaron Rodgers tends to take his time on such matters, so I don't expect a swift resolution, but head coach Mike McCarthy likes Aaron Rodgers of course from his time in Green Bay. He is a bridge option for them. They've looked hard at quarterbacks in the 2026 draft, so they certainly could draft one.”

— Jeremy Fowler, NFL Insider (ESPN)

What’s next

The Steelers will likely have to wait until Rodgers makes a decision on his future, which could take several months, before they can finalize their offseason plans. In the meantime, they will continue to evaluate their options at quarterback, including potentially drafting a new signal-caller in the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

The uncertainty surrounding Aaron Rodgers' future is a significant challenge for the Pittsburgh Steelers as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season. The team's quarterback situation will be a critical factor in their offseason strategy, and Rodgers' decision could have a major impact on the Steelers' free agency and draft plans.