The Pittsburgh Steelers have limited salary cap space after officially re-signing Aaron Rodgers as their starting quarterback for the 2026 season. Unless the future Hall of Famer suffers a significant injury this year, he is expected to remain the clear starter moving forward.
Even with those financial constraints, Rodgers could still play a role in attracting potential free agents to Pittsburgh in the coming months.
He may not have full control in Pittsburgh, but Rodgers could still influence decisions behind the scenes and help bring new talent into the mix. That was evident last season when the team added Adam Thielen and Marquez Valdes-Scantling. While some fans may dislike the idea of a player having that kind of influence in free agency, it remains a realistic possibility.
Pittsburgh Steelers could sign free agents after officially bringing back QB Aaron Rodgers
DeAndre Hopkins, WR
Bringing in an aging wide receiver should not be at the top of the Steelers’ priority list, but it cannot be ruled out entirely. Signing DeAndre Hopkins would generate plenty of headlines, and Rodgers has shown in the past that he enjoys working with experienced receivers.
Adding a former elite playmaker like Hopkins could raise some questions, especially since it might limit the opportunities for others.
Marcedes Lewis, TE
If he plans to play this season, keep an eye on 42-year-old Marcedes Lewis. He has a prior connection with Aaron Rodgers, and the quarterback has spoken highly of the free agent. Given his age, signing Lewis could present some challenges, but he remains a reliable depth option, and Pittsburgh could benefit from adding another presence at the position. He could be a nice last-minute addition.
Taylor Decker, OT
Depending on how Max Iheanachor performs this summer, the Steelers could find themselves needing a late solution along the offensive line. Taylor Decker is getting older, but he remains a dependable left tackle with extensive experience.
With Rodgers now the oldest starting quarterback in the NFL, keeping him healthy should be a top priority, and he could push for Decker to be added as a reliable insurance option.
Robert Tonyan Jr., TE
Outside of Marcedes Lewis, another free agent option could be Robert Tonyan Jr. He spent time in Green Bay with Rodgers and Mike McCarthy, giving him familiarity with them. In fact, he just worked out for the team on Tuesday. Tonyan is accustomed to serving in a depth role at tight end, and with Pittsburgh looking to solidify the position before training camp, he fits that need well as a dependable addition with established connections.
Curtis Samuel, WR
Rodgers has often favored veteran players, even when younger playmakers on the roster may offer more upside.
Curtis Samuel remains a free agent and could be an option that appeals to him. While Samuel may not stand out in any one area, he is an experienced player who understands his role and how to contribute. He would need to earn his spot, but he could be a receiver Rodgers might prefer.
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