Steelers Uncertain About Quarterback Plan If Aaron Rodgers Retires

Pittsburgh may target a late-round QB in the 2026 NFL Draft if Rodgers doesn't return.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 5:34pm

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The Pittsburgh Steelers are still unsure about their quarterback situation for the 2026 NFL season, as veteran Aaron Rodgers has not yet decided if he will return to the team. Steelers owner Art Rooney II has said he wants Rodgers to make a decision before the draft, which is less than three weeks away. If Rodgers does not come back, the Steelers may look to draft a quarterback on Day 3 of the draft, with second-year player Will Howard and prospects like Ty Simpson as potential options.

Why it matters

The Steelers' quarterback situation is a critical question mark heading into the offseason, as Rodgers' potential retirement would leave a significant void at the position. How the team addresses this need could have major implications for their competitiveness in the 2026 season.

The details

Rodgers had an efficient 2025 season for the Steelers, completing 65.7% of his passes for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. However, he has not yet committed to playing in 2026. Steelers coach Mike McCarthy has been in regular contact with Rodgers, and owner Art Rooney II has said he wants a decision from the veteran QB before the draft on April 23. If Rodgers does not return, the Steelers may look to target a quarterback on Day 3 of the draft, with ESPN's Brooke Pryor noting there is a 'very real possibility' they select one. McCarthy has expressed excitement about second-year QB Will Howard, while ESPN analyst Louis Riddick believes prospect Ty Simpson could be a good fit in the Steelers' system.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is less than three weeks away, taking place on April 23.
  • Steelers owner Art Rooney II has said he wants Aaron Rodgers to make a decision on his future before the draft begins.

The players

Aaron Rodgers

The veteran quarterback who had an efficient 2025 season for the Steelers, but has not yet committed to playing in 2026.

Art Rooney II

The owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who has said he wants Rodgers to make a decision on his future before the 2026 NFL Draft.

Mike McCarthy

The head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who has been in regular contact with Rodgers and has expressed excitement about second-year QB Will Howard.

Will Howard

The second-year quarterback for the Steelers, who coach Mike McCarthy believes has a chance to boost his stock this offseason.

Ty Simpson

A quarterback prospect that ESPN analyst Louis Riddick believes could be a good fit in the Steelers' system, citing his ability to throw the football and his potential in Mike McCarthy's offense.

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What they’re saying

“I have not talked to him. Coach [McCarthy] has been in contact with him pretty regularly. I think a decision is probably coming soon.”

— Art Rooney II, Steelers Owner

“I'm really excited about Will Howard. He's someone that, I thought, he really came on there at Ohio State.”

— Mike McCarthy, Steelers Head Coach

“I like Will Howard – I don't like Will Howard as much as Ty Simpson. I don't even think they're in the same stratosphere as far as their ability to throw the football. I think Ty Simpson is a guy who, right now, based upon how the season ended – and we've talked about it a lot and we're going to be talking about it a lot more.”

— Louis Riddick, ESPN Analyst

What’s next

The Steelers will need to wait for Aaron Rodgers to make a decision on his future before determining their quarterback plan for the 2026 season. If Rodgers retires, the team may look to target a quarterback in the later rounds of the upcoming draft.

The takeaway

The Steelers' quarterback situation is a major question mark heading into the offseason, with the future of veteran Aaron Rodgers still uncertain. If Rodgers does not return, the team may have to turn to unproven options like Will Howard or a late-round draft pick, which could significantly impact their competitiveness in 2026.