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Aaron Rodgers talk adds intrigue to Steelers murky QB situation
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- Aaron Rodgers talk adds intrigue to Steelers murky QB situation
The Pittsburgh Steelers are the only team in the NFL without a definitive answer at what is arguably the single-most important position on their roster. With the NFL Draft five weeks away and training camp still months out, there is time to sort it out. But as things stand, Pittsburgh's plan appears to center around three realistic paths.
The first option is the one that continues to hover over everything: Aaron Rodgers returning to Pittsburgh. There's a sense that, behind the scenes, both sides may already understand how this plays out. If that's the case, it becomes a waiting game. Rodgers would immediately stabilize the position and give the Steelers a legitimate chance to compete in the AFC as they did in 2025.
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If that doesn't materialize, the second option -- and a highly unbelievable one -- is sticking with what's already in the building. That would mean rolling with Mason Rudolph as starter and second-year quarterback Will Howard as the backup. On paper, it feels like the least convincing route. Rudolph has experience, but limited upside, while Howard is unproven. This path caps the offense rather than elevates it.
The third option feels like the most practical fallback. If Rodgers is not coming back, Pittsburgh could pivot to a veteran alternative such as Kirk Cousins . That approach would provide stability while also leaving the door open for a rookie addition.
Even then, the draft may not offer an immediate solution. The Steelers hold the No. 21 pick, which is not ideal positioning for a plug-and-play starter. This year's quarterback class is also viewed as underwhelming. Fernando Mendoza stands out as the only prospect with true day one potential, while others like Ty Simpson are seen more as developmental pieces.
Pittsburgh's direction at quarterback will define its ceiling in 2026. The clock is ticking, but the outcome remains wide open.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers quarterback options with Aaron Rodgers uncertainty
