Pittsburgh Steelers
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Steelers predicted to host another QB.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have a lot riding on quarterback Aaron Rodgers, but the uncertainty around his plans for the 2026 season is leading to some criticism of the team.
Rodgers have not said whether he plans to return for another season, putting the Steelers in a difficult situation as most other viable quarterback options have already found new destinations. Bleacher Report’s Brad Gagnon called out the team over the situation, calling it the biggest question facing the Steelers this offseason.
Steelers Still Waiting on Aaron Rodgers
In an article identifying the biggest remaining questions for all 32 NFL teams, Gagnon wrote that Rodgers has left the Steelers in a difficult situation. While there is an expectation that he will return, the Steelers may not be willing to wait forever, Gagnon suggested.
“This has been the prevailing question for any team employing Aaron Rodgers at this time in recent offseasons,” Gagnon wrote. “The Steelers need definitive word from the veteran QB on his future before they’re on the clock with the 21st overall pick on April 23. That’s apparently the expectation, but nothing’s guaranteed with the 42-year-old. It could draw Ty Simpson into play.”
The Steelers went through a similar situation last season, when it was widely known that Rodgers intended to sign in Pittsburgh, but his final decision didn’t come until early June.
Steelers May Need Move for Ty Simpson
If the Steelers have their eyes on Ty Simpson, they may need to make a move up the NFL draft board to land him. The Alabama quarterback has seen his draft stock rise steadily, and ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky suggested he will go in the first round — and potentially early in the round.
“I think Ty Simpson is QB1,” Orlovsky said. “I think Ty Simpson is the best quarterback in this class.”
Orlovsky suggested that Simpson could have all the tools to grow into a franchise quarterback.
“I think when you look at the body of work and what was asked of these two quarterbacks, you have to start with the question, ‘Who needed to do more to carry their football team to play well?’ It’s Ty Simpson, and it’s not even close between those two,” Orlovsky said.
If the Steelers want Simpson as a quarterback — even one to develop behind Rodgers for a year — they may need to trade up from the No. 21 overall pick.