‘Incredible lack of foresight’: Why Aaron Rodgers returning is bad for the Steelers

Dec 7, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) looks on before the game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-Imagn Images

The Pittsburgh Steelers have spent the entire offseason awaiting Aaron Rodgers’ decision on whether to retire or return for another season in the NFL after leading the franchise to an AFC North title in his first season with the team.

On Thursday, NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported that although nothing has been finalized or signed, Rodgers plans on meeting with the franchise over the weekend with the intention of working toward his return for next season.

“FA QB Aaron Rodgers, who is expected to visit the #Steelers Friday and this weekend, will likely play for them in 2026, sources say. A deal is not done & there is always caution until things are signed. But Rodgers’ plan is to play for PIT & these are steps toward that end,” Rapoport posted on X.

FA QB Aaron Rodgers, who is expected to visit the #Steelers Friday and this weekend, will likely play for them in 2026, sources say.

A deal is not done & there is always caution until things are signed. But Rodgers’ plan is to play for PIT & these are steps toward that end. pic.twitter.com/ZVoHTCDBdh

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 7, 2026

Unfortunately for the Steelers, this puts the franchise in a tough spot moving forward. Pittsburgh will undeniably have to be more competitive on the field this season with Rodgers under center, but it’s hard to imagine the Steelers being a legitimate title contender, even if Rodgers can drag its roster back to the playoffs.

Now, the Steelers risk being too good to draft high in 2027, in one of the most heralded quarterback draft classes in years, as noted by NFL writer Marcus Mosher, and not good enough to achieve the ultimate goal.