Steelers Predicted to Draft Aaron Rodgers' Replacement

The Steelers are still waiting on Rodgers' decision as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 3:53pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented football game, with sharp planes of black, gold, and white representing the Pittsburgh Steelers' colors and style of play.The Steelers' quarterback future remains uncertain as they await Aaron Rodgers' decision, leaving the team to potentially draft his successor.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Steelers are in limbo as they wait for quarterback Aaron Rodgers to decide his future. With no deadline or contract offer from the team, Rodgers has yet to commit to playing in 2026. As a result, the Steelers are widely expected to select a quarterback in the upcoming NFL Draft to potentially replace the future Hall of Famer.

Why it matters

The Steelers have been one of the NFL's most consistent franchises, making the playoffs in 9 of the last 12 seasons. However, their long-term quarterback situation is uncertain with Rodgers' future up in the air. Drafting a quarterback early would provide insurance and allow the team to transition smoothly whenever Rodgers does decide to retire.

The details

Rodgers, who turns 42 before the 2026 season, has not given the Steelers a firm timeline on when he will make his decision. The four-time MVP has hinted that he may play for 1-2 more seasons, but has also left the door open for retirement. The Steelers, who hold the 17th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, are expected to target a quarterback such as Bryce Young or C.J. Stroud if one of the top prospects falls to them.

  • Rodgers, 41, has not set a deadline to decide his future.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26, 2026.

The players

Aaron Rodgers

A 41-year-old quarterback who has spent his entire 18-year NFL career with the Green Bay Packers. Rodgers is a 4-time MVP and Super Bowl champion, but his future remains uncertain as he weighs retirement.

Bryce Young

A highly touted quarterback prospect out of the University of Alabama, Young is projected to be one of the top picks in the 2026 NFL Draft.

C.J. Stroud

The Ohio State quarterback is also considered a potential top selection in the 2026 NFL Draft and could be an option for the Steelers if he's available at #17.

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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”

— Aaron Rodgers

What’s next

The Steelers will continue to monitor Rodgers' situation as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, where they are expected to target a quarterback in the early rounds.

The takeaway

The Steelers' long-term quarterback future remains uncertain with Aaron Rodgers' future up in the air. Drafting a top QB prospect would provide insurance and allow for a smooth transition whenever Rodgers decides to retire.