In a mostly-barren quarterback market, the Pittsburgh Steelers don’t have many options. So, despite him turning 43 years old late in the 2026 season, the Steelers have made it clear that they’d love Aaron Rodgers to be back in the black and gold for another campaign.
To some, that’s a decision that makes sense given the lack of choices elsewhere. To others, including Mark Schlereth (who had high hopes for Rodgers last year), it’s a sign that the organization is going in the wrong direction.
“Where are you going as an organization if you bring back Aaron Rodgers?” Schlereth asked on his Stinkin’ Truth Podcast on Wednesday. “As much as I love Aaron Rodgers, and we had this relationship, and we had success. You’re not going anywhere…If you’re talking about seven playoff teams, with Aaron Rodgers, where are you? You’re on the outside looking in. I promise you that.”
All things considered, Aaron Rodgers had a good season for the Steelers in 2025. He made some big throws when he needed to, rarely made serious mistakes, and put up enough points to lead the Steelers to 10 wins and a divisional title.
However, there clearly were some limitations to his game, as with any player his age. If the Steelers are hoping to compete with Rodgers, they’re going to have to put more talent around him. This offseason represents an excellent chance to do so, but it’s a must either way.
We know the Steelers always want to compete, no matter what. However, bringing Rodgers in, hoping for a Super Bowl, doesn’t have to be the goal. Unfortunately, Will Howard didn’t get any time on an NFL field last year. But he did get some valuable experience learning behind Rodgers. Bringing Rodgers back would only give Howard another year of that help, if he truly is someone the Steelers think can be their franchise quarterback. And if they draft a quarterback, having Rodgers in the building would be valuable for them as well.
It’s not wrong to want someone other than Aaron Rodgers playing quarterback for the Steelers in 2026. Some of his limitations were on full display last season. However, he also proved he can still win games when the talent around him helps out. Either way, Rodgers seems to be plan A for the Steelers this offseason.
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