Steelers Reveal QB Plans if Aaron Rodgers Doesn't Return

Pittsburgh exploring draft options as Rodgers' future remains uncertain

Apr. 3, 2026 at 9:53pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a quarterback in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of color and form representing the uncertainty surrounding the Steelers' quarterback situation.A cubist interpretation of the Steelers' quarterback conundrum as they await Aaron Rodgers' decision and explore draft options.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing for the possibility that veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers may not return for the 2026 season. Team insider Brooke Pryor revealed the Steelers could target quarterbacks Carson Beck or Drew Allar in the upcoming NFL Draft if Rodgers decides to retire. Steelers owner Art Rooney II said a decision from Rodgers is expected before the draft, but the team is exploring contingency plans in case he does not come back.

Why it matters

The Steelers' quarterback situation is a critical offseason storyline, as the team looks to transition from the Ben Roethlisberger era. Rodgers' potential retirement would leave a significant void at the position, forcing the Steelers to find a new long-term solution through the draft or free agency.

The details

Steelers insider Brooke Pryor reported the team could target quarterbacks Carson Beck or Drew Allar in the draft if Rodgers does not return. This aligns with new head coach Mike McCarthy's preferences, as he has raved about former Ohio State QB Will Howard. However, the Steelers will need to add talent to the QB room regardless of Rodgers' decision, with Kirk Cousins signing with the Raiders and the team lacking a clear successor to Roethlisberger.

  • The NFL Draft is just a few weeks away.
  • Steelers owner Art Rooney II said a decision from Rodgers is expected before the draft.

The players

Aaron Rodgers

Veteran quarterback who is weighing his NFL future, with the Steelers waiting to see if he will return for the 2026 season.

Mike McCarthy

New head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who has been in regular contact with Rodgers and is evaluating quarterback options for the team's future.

Carson Beck

Quarterback prospect who could be a target for the Steelers in the upcoming NFL Draft.

Drew Allar

Quarterback prospect who could be a target for the Steelers in the upcoming NFL Draft.

Art Rooney II

Owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who has stated a decision from Rodgers is expected before the NFL Draft.

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What they’re saying

“I think it's a very real possibility that they could draft a quarterback, maybe not in the first round.”

— Brooke Pryor, Steelers insider

“The conversations have been very positive.”

— Mike McCarthy, Steelers head coach

What’s next

The Steelers will need to make a decision on their quarterback plans before the NFL Draft, which is just a few weeks away. If Rodgers decides to retire, the team will likely target a quarterback prospect in the draft to compete with Will Howard and provide depth at the position.

The takeaway

The Steelers' quarterback situation is a crucial offseason storyline as the team looks to transition from the Ben Roethlisberger era. Rodgers' potential retirement would leave a significant void, forcing the Steelers to find a new long-term solution through the draft or free agency. The team's ability to address this need will be a key factor in their success in the 2026 season and beyond.