Steelers Weighing Options as Aaron Rodgers Ponders Retirement

Pittsburgh has engaged in positive talks with Rodgers, but also has contingency plans in place.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 4:20pm

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The Pittsburgh Steelers have had an eventful offseason, with the departure of long-time head coach Mike Tomlin and the hiring of Mike McCarthy. However, the biggest question facing the team is who will be their starting quarterback next season, as the prospect of Aaron Rodgers' potential retirement looms. The Steelers have reportedly maintained positive conversations with Rodgers, but are also aware that he has not yet given them a concrete answer on his future. The team has contingency plans in place in the form of Mason Rudolph and Will Howard, but it remains to be seen whether the organization views either as a long-term option.

Why it matters

The Steelers' quarterback situation is crucial for the team's success next season. Rodgers' potential retirement would leave a significant void, and the team's ability to navigate this transition will be key to their competitiveness in the upcoming season.

The details

NFL insider Brooke Pryor of ESPN reported that while Rodgers hasn't given the Steelers a definitive answer on his future, the two sides continue to engage in positive conversations. Newly acquired Steelers wide receiver Michael Pittman acknowledged that Rodgers is still considering his options, but also noted that the team has two capable quarterbacks in Rudolph and Howard.

  • The Steelers hired Mike McCarthy as their new head coach earlier this offseason.

The players

Aaron Rodgers

A veteran quarterback who is considering retirement after a long and successful NFL career.

Mike Tomlin

The former long-time head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who voluntarily stepped down from the position this offseason.

Mike McCarthy

The new head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, hired to replace the departing Mike Tomlin.

Mason Rudolph

A quarterback on the Steelers' roster who could be a potential replacement for Rodgers if he retires.

Will Howard

Another quarterback on the Steelers' roster who could be a potential replacement for Rodgers if he retires.

Michael Pittman

A wide receiver recently acquired by the Steelers, who commented on the team's quarterback situation.

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What they’re saying

“Though Rodgers hasn't given the Steelers a concrete answer on his future, the two sides continue to engage in positive conversations, and Rodgers is aware of the ongoing roster construction.”

— Brooke Pryor, NFL insider

“I know that he's still thinking about it. But we also have two really good quarterbacks here in Mason [Rudolph] and Will (Howard). So whatever ends up turning out, just like I think we'll have a good plan offensively, and we will make the most out of it.”

— Michael Pittman, Steelers wide receiver

What’s next

The Steelers will continue to monitor Rodgers' decision-making process and work to solidify their quarterback situation for the upcoming season, whether that involves Rodgers or one of their in-house options.

The takeaway

The Steelers' quarterback situation is a crucial factor in their competitiveness for the 2023 season. While they have engaged in positive talks with Rodgers, the team has also prepared contingency plans in case he decides to retire, highlighting their adaptability and commitment to fielding a strong team regardless of the outcome.