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Steelers Remain Focused on Aaron Rodgers as QB Options Dwindle
Pittsburgh's offseason moves point to a win-now approach with Rodgers or veteran Kirk Cousins
Mar. 16, 2026 at 2:20am
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With limited quarterback options available in free agency and the draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers appear to be zeroing in on either re-signing veteran Aaron Rodgers or pursuing Kirk Cousins as their starting QB for the 2026 season. The team's recent free agent signings and lack of pursuit of other QB prospects suggest they are in a 'win-now' mode, hoping to maximize the final years of edge rusher T.J. Watt's prime.
Why it matters
The Steelers' quarterback situation is a critical decision that will shape the team's immediate future. Rodgers or Cousins would provide an experienced, proven option to lead the team, but the Steelers must weigh the short-term benefits against the long-term implications and cost of either move.
The details
The Steelers have been in communication with Rodgers this offseason, while Cousins remains a free agent option. Pittsburgh has made win-now moves in free agency, signing cornerback Jamel Dean and trading for wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., both of whom are in their late 20s. The team has not pursued other quarterback options like Kyler Murray, Tua Tagovailoa, Malik Willis or Geno Smith, suggesting Rodgers or Cousins are the top priorities.
- Rodgers told 'The Pat McAfee Show' in early March that there was no deadline set by the Steelers and he had no immediate plans to make a decision on his future.
- The Steelers' new league year began less than a week ago.
The players
Aaron Rodgers
A veteran quarterback who played for the Green Bay Packers for 18 seasons and is considering his options for the 2026 NFL season, including potentially joining the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Kirk Cousins
A veteran quarterback who is currently a free agent and is being considered by the Pittsburgh Steelers as a potential starting option for the 2026 season.
T.J. Watt
An edge rusher for the Pittsburgh Steelers who will be 32 years old in October, and the team is looking to maximize the final years of his prime.
Mike McCarthy
The new head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who is tasked with winning now and is considering either re-signing Aaron Rodgers or pursuing Kirk Cousins as the team's starting quarterback.
Mason Rudolph
A quarterback currently on the Pittsburgh Steelers' roster who could compete for the starting job if the team does not sign Aaron Rodgers or Kirk Cousins.
What they’re saying
“There's been no deadline that's been put in front of me. There's no contract offer or anything. So there's nothing that I'm having to debate between.”
— Aaron Rodgers (The Pat McAfee Show)
What’s next
The Steelers will continue to monitor Rodgers' situation and could potentially pursue Kirk Cousins if Rodgers decides to retire. The team will also evaluate its options with younger quarterbacks like Will Howard during training camp.
The takeaway
The Steelers' offseason moves indicate a win-now approach, with the team focused on either re-signing veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers or pursuing another experienced option in Kirk Cousins. This strategy reflects the team's desire to maximize the final years of star pass rusher T.J. Watt's prime and make a deep playoff run in 2026.
