Steelers Await Rodgers' Decision Ahead of NFL Draft

Veteran QB's future with Pittsburgh remains uncertain as draft approaches.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 10:49pm

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The Pittsburgh Steelers are awaiting a decision from veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers on whether he will continue his playing career with the team. Steelers owner Art Rooney II expects Rodgers to provide an answer by the start of the NFL Draft on April 23. If Rodgers does return, he would be reunited with head coach Mike McCarthy, who previously coached him for 13 seasons with the Green Bay Packers.

Why it matters

Rodgers' decision will have major implications for the Steelers' quarterback depth chart and offensive plans heading into the 2026 season. The team currently has Mason Rudolph and Will Howard under contract, but Rodgers' return would provide an experienced, proven starter to lead the offense.

The details

Rodgers, who is 42 years old, threw for 3,322 yards with a 24:7 TD:INT ratio in 16 regular-season games for the 10-7 Steelers in 2025. The team has also acquired wide receiver Michael Pittman in a trade with the Indianapolis Colts, bolstering the receiving corps that was led by DK Metcalf last season.

  • Steelers owner Art Rooney II expects Rodgers to provide a decision by the start of the NFL Draft on April 23, 2026.

The players

Aaron Rodgers

A 42-year-old veteran quarterback who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025 and is considering whether to continue his playing career with the team.

Mike McCarthy

The head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who previously coached Rodgers for 13 seasons with the Green Bay Packers.

Mason Rudolph

A quarterback currently under contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Will Howard

A quarterback currently under contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Michael Pittman

A wide receiver acquired by the Pittsburgh Steelers in a trade with the Indianapolis Colts, bolstering the team's receiving corps.

DK Metcalf

The leading wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“I expect an answer from Rodgers regarding the QB's plans for the coming season by the NFL Draft, which starts April 23.”

— Art Rooney II, Steelers Owner

What’s next

If Rodgers decides to continue playing, the Steelers will need to determine how he fits into their quarterback depth chart and offensive plans for the 2026 season. If he retires, the team will need to address the position through the draft or free agency.

The takeaway

Rodgers' decision will have a significant impact on the Steelers' quarterback situation and offensive strategy heading into the 2026 NFL season. The team is awaiting his answer, which is expected to come before the start of the draft on April 23.