Steelers Expect Rodgers' Decision Before NFL Draft

Team president says quarterback will make call on future in next month

Mar. 30, 2026 at 4:49am

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The Pittsburgh Steelers are expecting a decision from veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers about his future with the team before the upcoming NFL draft in late April, according to team president Art Rooney II. Rodgers, who joined the Steelers last season, has praised new head coach Mike McCarthy and indicated he won't take as long this year to make his plans known.

Why it matters

Rodgers' decision will have major implications for the Steelers' roster and draft strategy, as they look to build on their AFC North division title and playoff appearance last season. The team and fans are eager to get clarity on the quarterback position before the draft.

The details

Steelers president Art Rooney II said the team expects to hear from Rodgers about his plans for the 2026 season before the April 23 NFL draft. Rodgers previously told the team he wouldn't take as long this year as he did last year to make his decision. In his lone season with the Steelers, Rodgers threw 24 touchdowns and 7 interceptions, leading the team to an AFC North title before a playoff loss.

  • The NFL draft will be held from April 23-25, 2026 in Pittsburgh.
  • Rodgers said earlier this offseason that the Steelers haven't given him a deadline, but the team expects a decision before the draft.

The players

Aaron Rodgers

Veteran quarterback who joined the Pittsburgh Steelers last season, leading them to an AFC North division title.

Art Rooney II

President of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Mike McCarthy

New head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, hired to replace Mike Tomlin.

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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, President, Pittsburgh Steelers

“When I talked to him and Omar talked to him, he told us he wasn't going to take as long this year as he did last year. I'm not 100% sure what that means, but I expect something before the draft.”

— Art Rooney II, President, Pittsburgh Steelers

“I love Mike, and Mike and I have kept some contact over the years. He's one of the great guys in the league, an exceptional human being with a big heart.”

— Aaron Rodgers

What’s next

The Steelers will wait to see if Rodgers decides to return for another season or if he will retire or pursue opportunities with another team. The team's draft plans and roster moves will depend heavily on Rodgers' decision.

The takeaway

Rodgers' future with the Steelers is a major question heading into the offseason, and the team is eager to get clarity on the quarterback position before the draft so they can plan accordingly. The new head coach relationship with Rodgers could be a factor in his decision.