Steelers Await Rodgers' Decision on 2026 Season Amid Draft Plans The Pittsburgh Steelers may gain clarity this week regarding Aaron Rodgers’ potential return for the 2026 season as their starting quarterback, though his decision will not immediately dictate their draft strategy. Rodgers, who departed after the team’s playoff loss to the Houston Texans, expressed hope to finalize his choice before free agency begins on March 9. His decision could significantly influence the Steelers’ approach to the quarterback position, which has lacked consistency over the past five years. If Rodgers chooses to return, it would provide the Steelers with a clearer direction for 2026, potentially reducing the need to pursue additional free-agent options. However, if he opts to move on, the team may face uncertainty in their plans, possibly leading to the pursuit of another quarterback in free agency. Despite this, the Steelers have no immediate intention of selecting a quarterback with their top draft pick, as they believe only Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza warrants a first-round selection. The team’s draft strategy remains focused on Day 2 picks, though they are unlikely to address the quarterback position until the third round. This decision is based on the belief that any Day 2 quarterback would have a higher ceiling than Will Howard, the sixth-round pick from last year who has received consistent praise from the Steelers’ coaching staff. During the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, the Steelers evaluated three quarterbacks—Alabama’s Ty Simpson, Penn State’s Drew Allar, and Miami’s Carson Beck. According to multiple sources, head coach Mike McCarthy conducted thorough and detailed interviews with each prospect, demonstrating a strong interest in assessing their potential.#aaron_rodgers #indianapolis #pittsburgh_steelers #mike_mccarthy #ty_simpson
