Steelers Owner Expects Aaron Rodgers Decision Before NFL Draft

Team president Art Rooney II says Rodgers is close to deciding on his future with the Steelers.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 1:33am

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Pittsburgh Steelers owner and team president Art Rooney II said on Tuesday that he expects quarterback Aaron Rodgers to make a decision on his future - whether to re-sign with the Steelers, retire, or go elsewhere - before the 2026 NFL Draft in late April. Rooney said head coach Mike McCarthy has been in regular contact with Rodgers, who joined the Steelers last year after 18 seasons with the Green Bay Packers and two with the New York Jets.

Why it matters

Rodgers' decision will have a major impact on the Steelers' offseason plans and roster construction, as the team looks to build on their 10-7 season and AFC North division title in 2025. With Rodgers potentially retiring or leaving, the Steelers will need to determine their long-term quarterback solution, either through the draft, free agency, or potentially re-signing the 42-year-old veteran.

The details

Rooney told reporters at the NFL's annual meetings in Phoenix that he has not spoken directly to Rodgers, but that head coach Mike McCarthy has been in regular contact with the four-time MVP. Rooney said he expects Rodgers to make his decision by the time of the 2026 NFL Draft, which the Steelers are hosting from April 23-25. The Steelers currently hold the 21st overall pick in the draft.

  • Rooney made his comments on Tuesday, March 28, 2026 at the NFL annual meetings in Phoenix.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 23-25, 2026.

The players

Art Rooney II

Owner and team president of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Aaron Rodgers

42-year-old quarterback who joined the Steelers in 2025 after 18 seasons with the Green Bay Packers and two with the New York Jets.

Mike McCarthy

Head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Mason Rudolph

Journeyman quarterback who re-signed with the Steelers last season and has appeared in 26 games and started 14 for the team from 2019-2021, 2023 and 2025.

Will Howard

The only other quarterback currently on the Steelers' roster besides Rodgers and Rudolph.

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What they’re saying

“I have not talked to him. Coach (Mike McCarthy) has been in contact with him pretty regularly, and I think a decision is probably coming soon.”

— Art Rooney II, Owner and team president, Pittsburgh Steelers

“I would say by the draft, I expect an answer, yeah.”

— Art Rooney II, Owner and team president, Pittsburgh Steelers

“I did not want to discuss a timeline for Rodgers to make a decision.”

— Mike McCarthy, Head coach, Pittsburgh Steelers

“I haven't been given a deadline.”

— Aaron Rodgers

What’s next

The Steelers will host the 2026 NFL Draft from April 23-25, where they hold the 21st overall pick. Rodgers' decision on his future is expected to be made before the draft, which will significantly impact the team's offseason plans and roster construction.

The takeaway

Aaron Rodgers' decision on whether to re-sign with the Steelers, retire, or play elsewhere will be a pivotal moment for the franchise as they look to build on their 2025 division title and playoff appearance. The Steelers are hoping to get clarity on their quarterback situation before the 2026 NFL Draft, which they are hosting, in order to properly address the position and set themselves up for long-term success.