Steelers Await Rodgers’ Decision Amid Tightening Quarterback Options

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in a precarious position as they await a decision from four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers regarding his future. Two weeks into the 2025 league year, the Steelers currently have two quarterbacks on their roster, but Rodgers’ indecision complicates their plans.

Rodgers, who visited Pittsburgh last week, spent six hours at the Steelers’ practice facility meeting with key personnel, including head coach Mike Tomlin and general manager Omar Khan. Despite multiple discussions, Rodgers left the city without signing a contract, leaving his options open as he continues to weigh his next steps.

“I don’t think he feels any urgency,” said an NFL insider familiar with the situation. “Rodgers has a history of taking his time before making decisions that could impact his career.” With options continuing to dwindle, the former Jets and Packers quarterback may soon be left with few choices: sign with the Steelers, retire, or wait for a quarterback-needy team to emerge closer to training camp.

The Steelers, however, cannot afford to wait indefinitely. Faced with limited time, they recently signed 2018 third-round pick Mason Rudolph to a two-year deal, alongside a backup from the Dolphins. With the NFL Draft approaching in less than a month, the urgency to solidify their quarterback situation grows.

Rodgers’ indecision coincides with other teams making moves that could limit the Steelers’ options. The New York Giants inked a deal with another quarterback on Tuesday, and the Minnesota Vikings have expressed a commitment to their 2024 first-round pick, leaving fewer veteran options available as free agency progresses.

If the Steelers cannot secure Rodgers, it could signal a shift towards drafting a quarterback in the near future. Khan has indicated in previous comments that all quarterbacking options would be evaluated, but there is a growing sense of urgency as potential candidates quickly sign elsewhere.

Should the Steelers fail to land Rodgers, they might consider bringing in another experienced veteran to compete with Rudolph. Free agent quarterbacks like Joe Flacco or Carson Wentz could serve as a stopgap solution until the 2026 draft, which is expected to feature top quarterback talent.

Flacco, who recently turned 40, brings experience from the Ravens and Colts alongside Rudolph’s relatively youthful potential. “Both Flacco and Rudolph are strong-armed pocket passers,” noted NFL analyst Mel Kiper Jr. “They would balance each other well.” Wentz, who struggled last season with the Washington Commanders, has shown moments of promise in the past but may not present a secure long-term solution.

As the draft approach, the Steelers face a reality where top quarterback prospects could be gone when they pick at No. 21. The organization has faced similar challenges in recent years, notably following the retirement of Ben Roethlisberger in 2022. That year, the team successfully signed and drafted a quarterback, but the landscape appears bleaker this go-round.

As Kiper stated, “If they want a shot at a quarterback this year, they need to act fast.” The Steelers may look to trade up to secure a prime draft pick but would face stiff competition for the top prospects. This daunting landscape raises questions about the overall strategy for a franchise in urgent need of revitalizing its quarterback situation and competing for playoff positioning.

Ultimately, as the Steelers navigate these uncertainties, a potential transaction with Rodgers looms large. While a delay could signal further difficulties ahead, the Steelers remain focused on balancing their current needs with future opportunities. With aging stars on defense and a prolonged playoff drought, the stakes are higher than ever for the Pittsburgh franchise.