Steelers President Predicts Rodgers’ Return

Art Rooney II, the owner and president of the Pittsburgh Steelers, thinks that by 2026, Aaron Rodgers will don a Steelers uniform once again. In a recent interview with NFL Network, Rooney shared that the team maintains regular communications with the future Hall of Fame quarterback. Interestingly, they utilized a rare UFA tender, which would allow them a compensatory pick should Rodgers decide to move to another team.

He labeled the chance of that happening as “unlikely.” The tender, as Rooney explained, primarily gives them a bit of security, just in case. “The main thing the tender allows us is the possibility of a comp pick if Aaron chooses to go to another team,” he noted. “We don’t expect it, but you never really know.” He added that it’s not a huge deal, but it’s just a layer of protection for the team.

Rooney conveyed optimism about hearing from Rodgers soon, indicating he might receive updates in the “coming weeks.” At 42 years old, Rodgers has yet to confirm if he will be playing in 2026 after spending last season with the Steelers.

In a separate comment, Rooney expressed some surprise about the timeline for a decision, admitting, “I thought we probably had a conclusion by now, but I think we’ll get a conclusion in the next few weeks.” He echoed sentiments shared by former head coach Mike Tomlin, who also believes that Rodgers will be the quarterback for the Steelers next season.

During the recent draft, the Steelers took a step to bolster their quarterback options by selecting Penn State standout Drew Aller in the third round. If Rodgers doesn’t return, the Steelers’ alternatives would include Aller, Will Howard, and Mason Rudolph.