Steelers Get Strong Update On Aaron Rodgers' Timeline To Make A Decision

The Pittsburgh Steelers are in the same spot that the franchise was during the 2025 offseason as the organization is waiting on a decision from quarterback Aaron Rodgers. It seems like the franchise would welcome him back in 2026 as the starter, but he is still weighing the possibility of retirement. He only signed a one-year deal in 2025, so he would technically be a free agent, but all signs point to him either retiring or coming back to Pittsburgh to play under his former head coach Mike McCarthy. It is an interesting situation to monitor as the franchise has to weigh all options at this juncture.

Rodgers played well for the Steelers in 2025, and he showed that he can still play quarterback efficiently even at his advanced age. His mobility and pocket awareness seemed to be an issue at certain points, but overall, he had a decent season. He played well enough to be brought back in 2026 if he wants to, and fans are waiting for the quarterback's decision. Reports have made it seem as though he is interested in coming back, but no one truly knows when it comes to Rodgers. Beat writer Mark Kaboly joined 93.7 The Fan on Wednesday, and he was asked for the timeline of a decision from Rodgers.

"I still think it’s going to be before free agency," Kaboly said. "I think that he has enough respect for the process, respect for Mike McCarthy, for the Steelers organization as a whole that he knows that he just can’t leave them hanging like last year."

Kaboly believes Rodgers will sign prior to free agency, which would be respectful of the franchise, the coaching staff, and the executives. It allows the decision-makers to appropriately plan for both free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft, knowing for certain whether or not the quarterback will be on the roster in 2026.

To the fan base, it seemed like Rodgers might have kept the organization hanging throughout the 2025 offseason. However, Kaboly insinuated that a hand-shake agreement was reached shortly after Rodgers' visit in March. The quarterback didn't officially sign until mandatory minicamp in June, but the franchise knew he was coming all along. Kaboly speculated that the franchise is going to want something more concrete this time around, which sounds completely reasonable.

Rodgers threw for over 3,300 yards and 24 touchdowns while throwing just seven interceptions during the 2025 season. Those numbers are impressive considering who he was throwing to sometimes. The quarterback showed he still has it, and reuniting with his head coach from his time with the Green Bay Packers could make those numbers jump even more. It is also a system he should be relatively familiar with, which may entice him to return.

Steelers Adding Wide Receiver Help Should Influence Aaron Rodgers' Decision

It was clear and obvious throughout the 2025 season that the Steelers had a weakness at wide receiver. DK Metcalf is great, but he needs other weapons around him to open up the offense and the passing game. The franchise needs wide receivers that can actually get open and fool a defense, and that is an area of focus for Pittsburgh during the 2026 offseason. The Steelers are projected to have five selections in the top 100 picks during the 2026 NFL Draft, and at least two of those selections should be used on the wide receiver position.

More talent at wide receiver should make Rodgers' life a little bit easier, and it is also worth noting that the offensive line is expected to take another step forward in 2026.

When do you think a decision will be made by Rodgers? Follow us for more news!

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