Aaron Rodgers' Future with Steelers Remains Undecided as Offseason Begins
The future of quarterback Aaron Rodgers with the Pittsburgh Steelers remains undecided as the team commences its offseason program. Rodgers, who is currently a free agent, has not communicated a decision to the team regarding a potential return or retirement.
With workouts now underway, the Steelers have designated Will Howard as the temporary starting quarterback. Concurrently, new head coach Mike McCarthy, who has a prior working relationship with Rodgers, has confirmed speaking with the quarterback but stated he does not have definitive information about his plans.
Rodgers' Contract Status and Team Stance
Aaron Rodgers completed the 2025 NFL season with the Pittsburgh Steelers and is now an unrestricted free agent. The Steelers have indicated they are open to re-signing him.
As of the latest reports, the team has not received a decision from Rodgers regarding his future, and there is no expectation he will decide before the NFL Draft.
2025 Season Performance:
- Games: Started 16 games.
- Passing: 327 completions on 498 attempts for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions.
- Efficiency: Achieved a 65.7% completion rate and a 94.8 passer rating.
- Rushing: 61 yards and one touchdown.
Current Quarterback Situation
With offseason workouts beginning, the Steelers have officially designated second-year player Will Howard as the temporary starting quarterback (QB1). Howard, a sixth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft from Ohio State, served as Rodgers' backup during his rookie season, appearing in one game.
The team's quarterback depth chart is described as fluid pending Rodgers' decision. Howard's role for the 2026 season is uncertain and could expand if Rodgers does not return to the team.
Head Coach Hiring and Its Context
The Steelers recently hired Mike McCarthy as their new head coach. McCarthy, the former head coach of the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys, was identified as a candidate for the position.
Connection to Aaron Rodgers:
- McCarthy and Rodgers have a shared history, working together with the Green Bay Packers from 2006 through the 2018 season.
- During their tenure, the pair won Super Bowl XLV, and Rodgers received two NFL MVP awards.
- Steelers owner Art Rooney II previously stated that Rodgers joined the team to play for former coach Mike Tomlin and that Tomlin’s departure would "most likely affect his decision" regarding his future.
Recent Communications and Speculation
Since his hiring, Coach McCarthy confirmed he has spoken with Rodgers but stated he has no definitive information regarding the quarterback's future plans. McCarthy commented that Rodgers is in a "really good place" as he considers his decision.
Steelers wide receiver Michael Pittman stated he believes Rodgers intends to play, though he noted he has not directly communicated with him.
Both Rodgers and the Steelers organization have not indicated a rapid timeline for a decision.