Steelers Had Unexpected Player Become Important In Head-Coaching Search

The Pittsburgh Steelers have entered a new era as a franchise, in some ways more than others. Ever since the team hired new head coach Mike McCarthy and signed him to a five-year deal, there have been many questions lingering on how the franchise will proceed in terms of roster construction. This could involve keeping certain players, or releasing or trading them to pursue a new direction on different sides of the ball. However, the biggest question still to be answered is who the team's starting quarterback will be for not just the 2026 season, but into the future.

One of those questions is about Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers and whether or not he'll return to the team for a second season. With McCarthy becoming the Steelers new head coach, the belief is that this hire slightly increases the odds Rodgers returns to the Steelers in 2026, but as for any official word on whether or not Rodgers will come back for a second season or not, the Steelers will likely not find out his plans for quite a while.

Naturally, Rodgers' plans are the hot topic among Steelers fans, along with others in the NFL community. However, the Steelers have other options at quarterback should Rodgers decide to not return, with one of those options being quarterback Will Howard, who was drafted last year in the sixth round. 

Steelers insider Ray Fittipaldo was asked about the Steelers' plans at quarterback, and his answer shed some light on what the fans could be in for with regards to how the Steelers' quarterback search could proceed in the offseason.

"I think Howard is a part of this equation," Fittipaldo said. "They'll speak with Rodgers soon and get a feel for what he wants to do. But I do know there are Howard backers in the building. It's unfortunate he was injured in camp and couldn't play in the preseason. If he did, maybe we'd have a better idea of where he is as a player. McCarthy is said to like Howard's potential. Art Rooney II relayed that this week so we'll see where all of this goes in the coming weeks and months."

Fittipaldo's comments show that the team currently has plans to talk to Rodgers, however, it could take a while for the Steelers to figure out exactly what his plans are. However, it seems as if the Steelers would certainly be open to his return, especially if his return can serve to continue to mentor Howard and prepare him to potentially start in the future.

Rodgers returning to the team also indicates that the team wants to continue the stability that he provided the team in terms of solid quarterback play. Rodgers had multiple games where it seemed as if he was able to turn the clock backwards and return to his vintage self with incredible performances, and keeping Rodgers for another season ensures that the team has the ability to win nine or 10 games again, rather than completely bottoming out and finishing with a losing season, the first such season for the Steelers since 2003. 

While the team seems to be willing to talk to Rodgers and see what his plans are, to see if he'd potentially want to come back for a second season, the other questions to answer will be about his supporting cast.

Steelers Can't Afford To Wait On Rodgers

No matter what Rodgers decides to do, the Steelers can't afford to be patient on filling out the supporting cast on the offense. With McCarthy's hire, there could be plenty of players entering and leaving the team, and it will be extremely important for the team to make these plans regardless of who starts at quarterback before those potential additions head elsewhere. The Steelers need to put their starter in the best possible position, no matter who that may be.

What did you think about Fittipaldo's comment regarding the Steelers plans with Rodgers? Let us know in the comments below.

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