The Pittsburgh Steelers are waiting on Aaron Rodgers. If he turns down the chance to re-join the team in 2026, Kirk Cousins is a plausible Plan B. But if Pittsburgh waits too long, Cousins may no longer be an option.
Speaking to reporters like Stu Jackson Monday, Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay said he’s spoken to Cousins and his agent about a possible deal.
Rams HC Sean McVay said they are still hopeful for a reunion with Jimmy Garoppolo, but also said they have spoken with Kirk Cousins and his agent as another possibility to fill the backup QB role.
— Stu Jackson (@StuJRams) March 30, 2026
Rodgers aside, Cousins remains the top free agent quarterback. He’s in no hurry to find his next team and with most other options paired with new clubs — Tua Tagovailoa and Atlanta, Kyler Murray and Minnesota — Cousins doesn’t have to worry about being undercut.
If Rodgers doesn’t return to Pittsburgh, Cousins would likely find the Steelers the most attractive landing spot. A clear path to start he wouldn’t have in Los Angeles where Matthew Stafford is firmly entrenched as the No. 1. ESPN’s Adam Schefter has repeatedly speculated Pittsburgh having interest in Cousins while Tom Pelissero recently revealed the Steelers made trade calls to Atlanta last offseason prior to Rodgers signing.
The question is if Cousins decides before Rodgers. In theory, Cousins could ink a deal with the Rams at any point, and if Rodgers spurns Pittsburgh, the Steelers will have to look elsewhere. At that point, the team may just proceed with Mason Rudolph, Will Howard, and potential draft pick.
It’s logical for Cousins to decide after the draft. To avoid a repeat of what happened in Atlanta, signing in March only to watch the Falcons draft Michael Penix Jr. in the first round.
Art Rooney II says he expects Rodgers to decide before the draft. But there’s no guarantee that happens and seemingly no consequence if Rodgers pushes his timeline past that date. The biggest risk Pittsburgh will take by waiting is not just missing out on Rodgers but any remaining veteran options the team could instead turn to.
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