4 things that need to happen for Aaron Rodgers to be next Steelers QB

Ben Roethlisberger would have to retire

As mentioned in the opening, I highly doubt the Steelers make a move for Rodgers if Ben still hasn’t hung up his cleats. If the new offense is able to breathe more life into Roethlisberger’s career, it could lead to him wanting to stay with the team for at least one more season. That would complicate any pursuit of Rodgers for obvious reasons, most importantly the idea of Ben either being forced into retirement or possibly playing for another team. Based on comments made today by owner Art Rooney II, the team hasn’t made any assumptions about Ben’s future.

As much as it may hurt for fans to think about, it would be the right football decision. Despite that, it is hard to see Pittsburgh moving on from him unless he were to play poorly enough for them to finish under .500. Even then it would be more likely that Ben retires on his own accord. It would be hard to get upset with the team for keeping him if he shows he can still play at a starting-caliber level, but that is likely his ceiling. Rodgers clearly has far more upside at this point and continues to be one of the very best in the game.

With the defense still expected to be one of the best in football over the next few seasons and a young offensive core still not at their peak, it would be a mistake for the Steelers not to be aggressive if Rodgers becomes available. They aren’t in a place where a true rebuild makes sense, and likely won’t be bad enough to be selecting the top signal-callers in the next few drafts.

Their best chance at staying competitive is to target an established veteran to replace Ben. Normally that is much easier said than done, but the complicated relationship between Rodgers and Green Bay presents that unique opportunity. The front office shouldn’t let Ben’s situation impact that decision.