According to a report from the NFL Network, there’s been no communication between the Steelers and Aaron Rodgers about his future, as mentioned by Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero. This information surfaced on Monday.
The Steelers are not anticipating any updates from the veteran QB regarding his potential return for another NFL season before the draft this week in Pittsburgh.
Will Howard, who was a sixth-round pick from Ohio State last year, is set to take the role of QB1 when the Steelers start their bonus minicamp under new head coach Mike McCarthy on Monday.
Pelissero noted that Rodgers is a free agent contemplating retirement after signing a one-year, $13.65 million deal with Pittsburgh for the 2025 season. However, he would ideally like to make a commitment before OTAs kick off in mid-May.
This news follows comments from Steelers owner Art Rooney II, who indicated during an interview with the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette on March 30 that he expected Rodgers to decide before the draft.
Rooney mentioned, “When I spoke with him, [general manager] Omar [Khan] mentioned it wouldn’t take as long this year as last year to make a decision. I’m not entirely sure what that entails, but I’m hopeful for something before the draft.”
He was further asked about the possibility of selecting a quarterback with the 21st overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, starting April 23 in Pittsburgh. Rooney responded, “All options are on the table.”
Rounds two and three are scheduled for Friday, while rounds four through seven will take place on Saturday.
Rodgers, who has been training in California, kept in regular touch with McCarthy and Steelers management during the recent NFL annual league meeting in Phoenix, which ran from March 29 to April 1.
McCarthy, who coached Rodgers for 13 years in Green Bay, expressed that he was “pleased with the dialogue,” noting that their discussions resembled those from previous years.
“Same conversations as always—about life, football, and facilities,” McCarthy said regarding his exchanges with Rodgers this offseason. “That’s part of what keeps him engaged.” He added, “He’s in a very positive situation, though he’s 42 now.”
McCarthy also mentioned that he has explored potential scenarios with GM Omar Khan, should Rodgers opt for retirement.
On March 4, Rodgers appeared on “The Pat McAfee Show,” stating that he had been in talks with McCarthy and Khan but emphasized there was “no deadline” and that no contract offer had been made at that point.
He remarked that he is relishing the offseason and spending quality time with his wife.
In the 2025 season, the former four-time MVP threw for 24 touchdowns and had seven interceptions over 16 games with the Steelers.
