Steelers President Gives Timeline for Aaron Rodgers Decision

Pittsburgh Steelers president Art Rooney II expects a decision from quarterback Aaron Rodgers before the 2026 NFL Draft.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 10:50pm

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Pittsburgh Steelers president Art Rooney II told reporters that the team expects a decision from quarterback Aaron Rodgers on his future plans before the 2026 NFL Draft. Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, joined the Steelers last season and led the team to a 10-6 record, but his contract status remains uncertain as he weighs his options for next season.

Why it matters

The Steelers' quarterback situation is a critical offseason storyline, as the team looks to build on its success from last year and make a deep playoff run. Rodgers' decision will have major implications for the team's roster, salary cap, and overall strategy heading into the 2026 season.

The details

Rodgers joined the Steelers last year after a long career with the Green Bay Packers. He passed for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions in his first season with Pittsburgh. The Steelers are hoping to have Rodgers' future resolved before the draft, unlike last year when he waited until June to join the team for OTAs.

  • Rooney expects Rodgers to make a decision before the 2026 NFL Draft.
  • Rodgers joined the Steelers last year in June for OTAs.

The players

Art Rooney II

The president of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Aaron Rodgers

A four-time NFL MVP quarterback who joined the Pittsburgh Steelers last season.

Omar Khan

The general manager of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Charlie Batch

A former backup quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Colin Cowherd

A sports commentator for Fox Sports.

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What they’re saying

“I still expect that. I expect we'll get an answer before the draft.”

— Art Rooney II, Pittsburgh Steelers President

“No deadline. All I'll tell you guys is I don't foresee this going like it did last year.”

— Omar Khan, Pittsburgh Steelers General Manager

“I think Aaron did absolutely outplay his contract. But I think Aaron making $32 million is reasonable. Absolutely. In that Baker (Mayfield), Sam Darnold class, absolutely.”

— Colin Cowherd, Fox Sports Commentator

“Aaron has no obligation to give you multiple years. It's not even team-friendly. They basically got him for free.”

— Colin Cowherd, Fox Sports Commentator

What’s next

The Steelers will wait for Rodgers to make a decision on his future before the 2026 NFL Draft, which is expected to happen within the next month.

The takeaway

The Steelers' quarterback situation remains a key offseason storyline, as the team waits to see if four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers will return for another season in Pittsburgh. Rodgers' decision will have major implications for the team's roster and strategy heading into the 2026 season.