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Steelers get uncertain news on Aaron Rodgers' retirement vs. return decision
TL;DR
The Pittsburgh Steelers are uncertain about Aaron Rodgers' decision to retire or return for the 2026 NFL season. No final word is expected before the NFL Draft.
Key points
- Steelers uncertain about Aaron Rodgers' future
- No decision expected before NFL Draft
- Will Howard named QB1 for minicamp
Mentioned in this story
Aaron RodgersWill Howard
Mike McCarthyPittsburgh Steelers
Steelers get uncertain news on Aaron Rodgers' retirement vs. return decision originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Well, this is getting at least a tad worrisome.
The Pittsburgh Steelers still don't know whether Aaron Rodgers is going to retire or instead return to play quarterback for them in the 2026 NFL season.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported this on Monday morning:
"The #Steelers have not received word from Aaron Rodgers on his future and there is no expectation of a final decision prior to the NFL Draft, per me and @TomPelissero. When minicamp begins today under new coach Mike McCarthy, Will Howard will be QB1."
MORE:How Navy star is perfect NFL Draft fit for Steelers
Rodgers is technically a free agent, but it seems at this point the only team he'd continue to play for would be Pittsburgh. It'd be a chance to reunite with McCarthy as well as try to get to the playoffs again after just squeaking in at the end of the 2025 campaign.
Without Rodgers, the Steelers have the aforementioned Howard, who was a sixth-round pick in 2025. He played most of his college career at Kansas State, then transferred to Ohio State for his final season and won a national title.
Along with Howard, the Steelers have reliable backup Mason Rudolph.
Neither of those guys scream that they are starter material, but if Rodgers decides not to show up, Pittsburgh is running out of options.
Q&A
What is Aaron Rodgers' decision regarding retirement or return?
Aaron Rodgers has not communicated his decision about retiring or returning to play for the Steelers in the 2026 NFL season.
When can we expect Aaron Rodgers to announce his decision?
There is no expectation for Aaron Rodgers to make a final decision before the NFL Draft.
Who will be the Steelers' starting quarterback if Rodgers does not return?
If Aaron Rodgers does not return, Will Howard will be the starting quarterback for the Steelers under new coach Mike McCarthy.
