Steelers get an update on Aaron Rodgers before the NFL Draft

Aaron Rodgers’ future remains unresolved as the NFL Draft approaches, leaving the Steelers to proceed with Will Howard as QB1 during minicamp. Rodgers has hinted at a possible return but has not finalized any agreement, and insiders say a decision will not be made before the draft begins.

With no imminent sign-off, Pittsburgh will lean on Howard for reps, with Mason Rudolph serving as his backup. Howard, a sixth-round pick last year, is viewed by the organization as a developmental option, and the Steelers could add another quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft to complement him.

Rodgers’ status has also shaped expectations at the ownership level. Steelers owner Art Rooney II expressed a preference for a decision before the draft, but there is still no contract in place and no finalized timeline.

Mike McCarthy, Rodgers’ longtime coach in Green Bay, has been hired in Pittsburgh and insists the team has a plan for quarterback acquisition and adaptability across positions. He noted the Steelers have discussed a range of scenarios, emphasizing the need to be proactive.

Rodgers’ production last season—3,322 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions—remains a point of reference as the Steelers navigate the offseason. With several months before the start of the 2026 season, Pittsburgh will continue to prepare and evaluate its quarterback options while Rodgers’ decision looms.