The Pittsburgh Steelers are making a bold move in their ongoing search for a quarterback. According to Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers visited with the team on Friday, a hopeful sign of a pending deal.
The Steelers’ quarterback situation has been a glaring weakness this offseason. With limited veteran options remaining, the franchise appears to be seriously considering the four-time MVP as a solution.
The search for a capable quarterback has been one of general manager Omar Khan’s primary challenges this offseason. When the 2024 campaign ended, Justin Fields and Russell Wilson became unrestricted free agents, leaving Pittsburgh without a clear direction at the most vital position.
Fields, regarded as the best option for a quick rebuild, signed a two-year, $40 million deal with the New York Jets. His mobility and youth made him an ideal candidate for a Steelers offense yearning for fresh energy, but his departure closed that door before Pittsburgh could act.
With Fields off the market, many expected the Steelers to revisit Wilson. Wilson had familiarity with new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s system and still possessed enough skill to be a stabilizing force. However, a five-game losing streak to end the season created tension between Wilson and the organization, making a reunion unlikely. The front office, it seems, is content to move on.
With Fields and Wilson no longer options, the Steelers now turn their attention to the last remaining high-profile veteran on the market: Aaron Rodgers. The four-time MVP undoubtedly brings experience, leadership, and an elite track record, but his recent seasons raise some concerns.
Signing Aaron Rodgers is becoming a desperate but necessary move for the Pittsburgh Steelers
A ruptured Achilles derailed Rodgers' season in 2023. It also cast doubt on his durability at age 41. Before his injury, questions about his mobility and ability to maintain elite play were surfacing. Additionally, Rodgers’ sometimes polarizing demeanor and strong-willed personality could be challenging for a young and evolving Steelers roster.
That said, his relentless desire to win cannot be ignored.
If healthy, he still possesses the arm talent and football IQ to elevate a team desperate for offensive stability. Pittsburgh would be making a calculated gamble in pursuing Rodgers, hoping he still has enough left to guide them back to championship contention.
Despite the visit, no deal was finalized between Rodgers and the Steelers. While this doesn’t rule out the possibility of a contract being signed in the coming days, it opens the door for Pittsburgh to explore other avenues. If Rodgers ultimately declines to join the team, the Steelers may have little choice but to turn their focus to the 2025 NFL Draft, where they could target a young quarterback to develop as their long-term answer.
The uncertainty surrounding the Steelers’ quarterback situation continues to be a major storyline, and time is running out for the franchise to solidify its future under center. Whether it’s Rodgers or a rookie prospect, Pittsburgh must soon make a decision that will shape the team for years to come.