The 2026 NFL Draft is just over a week away, set to unfold in the heart of Pittsburgh from April 23-25, yet the Pittsburgh Steelers remain without a confirmed starting quarterback for the upcoming season. Despite leading the team to a division title last year—their first in five seasons—future first-ballot Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers is still unsigned as the clock ticks down.
Appearing on Monday’s edition of The Pat McAfee Show, ESPN senior insider Adam Schefter delivered the latest insights into the ongoing saga between the Steelers and the veteran quarterback. While Schefter stopped short of declaring a firm deadline, he noted that widespread expectation points toward Rodgers returning to the Steel City for a 22nd NFL season.
“We all believe he is going to be back, but he still hasn’t given an answer,” Schefter said. He highlighted the intriguing dilemma facing Pittsburgh: “So if he hasn’t given them an answer by the time the draft starts next week, do the Pittsburgh Steelers at some point in time draft a quarterback? … It’s kind of an interesting, little question that’s sitting there until No. 8 weighs in.”
The sentiment echoes across Steelers Nation, with many fans and observers anticipating Rodgers’ return. As Pat McAfee put it, “I know that everybody expects Aaron Rodgers to be back in Pittsburgh. We’re waiting to see if he’s gonna play or not.”
Reuniting with a Familiar Coach Boosts the Odds
The hiring of Mike McCarthy as the Steelers’ new head coach adds significant weight to the case for a Rodgers comeback. McCarthy and Rodgers shared a highly successful partnership in Green Bay, collaborating for 13 seasons (with Rodgers as the starter for 11 of them). Together, they guided the Packers to eight straight playoff appearances, five division titles, and two of Rodgers’ four career MVP awards.
"I know that everybody expects Aaron Rodgers to be back in Pittsburgh..
We're waiting to see if he's gonna play or not"@AdamSchefter #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/LOq4YKufFV
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) April 13, 2026
At 42 years old during the 2025 season, Rodgers showed he still possesses elite ability. He threw for 25 total touchdowns, posted a solid 94.8 passer rating, and went 10-6 as the starter, sparking a resurgence that revitalized both his career and the team’s fortunes. With McCarthy now calling the shots in Pittsburgh, the reunion narrative grows even more compelling—potentially setting the stage for one more competitive run.
Why the Steelers Should Prioritize Rodgers’ Return
From a strategic standpoint, re-signing Rodgers remains the clearest path forward for a Steelers roster built to contend. The organization appears to have maintained quiet, behind-the-scenes dialogue with the quarterback, and while no deal is official, optimism persists that an agreement could materialize soon.
Rodgers will turn 43 in December, but his performance last season demonstrated that he retains the arm talent, decision-making, and leadership to elevate a talented supporting cast. Bringing him back would provide stability at the position while allowing the team to focus on complementary roster moves rather than a full-scale rebuild at quarterback.
Contingency Plans if Rodgers Says No
Should Rodgers ultimately opt against returning, the Steelers have viable fallback options. Young backup Will Howard, a former national champion, gained valuable experience last season mentoring under both Rodgers and veteran Mason Rudolph. Howard could step into a larger role as the potential future of the franchise.
With 12 draft picks in hand this month, Pittsburgh could also target a quarterback prospect to inject long-term talent into the room. A trade for an experienced veteran—such as San Francisco 49ers backup Mac Jones—could serve as another bridge option depending on how the board falls.
Nevertheless, even with these alternatives on the table, Rodgers stands out as the best immediate fit. His “rebirth” in 2025 suggests there may still be meaningful production left in the tank for at least one more season under a familiar coaching voice in McCarthy.
As the NFL Draft approaches and Pittsburgh prepares to host the league’s premier event, all eyes remain fixed on No. 8. Whether Rodgers makes his decision public before the first pick or surprises everyone with a dramatic reveal at Acrisure Stadium, Steelers fans are hanging on every update. One thing is clear: the quarterback question will define the team’s trajectory heading into 2026.
