All signs continue to point to Aaron Rodgers as the Pittsburgh Steelers’ starting quarterback next season, but nothing is final until he officially signs on the dotted line. The legendary quarterback is coming off a campaign that defied expectations, yet once again failed to deliver postseason success in Pittsburgh.
While much of Steelers Nation would prefer the team move in a different direction, it does not appear the organization shares that view.
The Steelers continue to wait for Rodgers to make an official decision, much like last year. They did not get an answer until June 6, when the gunslinger finally put pen to paper. Many believed this situation would not drag on, but it is beginning to enter dangerous territory. Owner Art Rooney II has made it clear he wants a decision before the NFL Draft, yet no one knows what will happen.
Fans are growing frustrated with Rodgers taking his time rather than making a timely decision. In the unlikely event the future Hall of Famer chooses to retire, the Steelers could find themselves in serious trouble. The team is high on Will Howard and could target a quarterback in the draft, but they would likely want another veteran on the roster. One possible option could be Derek Carr as a stopgap.
Pittsburgh Steelers backup plan might be Derek Carr if Aaron Rodgers doesn't re-sign
Should Carr be their main backup option if Rodgers decides to step away from football? No. They would be in a tough spot if their quarterback from last year went this entire time without making a commitment only to turn face at the last moment. It appears he found a new lease on his career with the Steelers, and it would be shocking to see Rodgers retire, even with all the changes.
It would be a bold move to try to talk Carr out of retirement to play in Pittsburgh this season.
He has been open about the possibility of getting back into football. While Carr is a serviceable starter, he was never considered a top-tier quarterback throughout his career. After Kirk Cousins signed with the Las Vegas Raiders, the Steelers’ top backup plan beyond Rodgers has suddenly fallen apart.
At the end of the day, losing Rodgers would force this franchise into a tough spot. Howard has potential, but he was a sixth-round pick and should have low expectations as a starter. Mason Rudolph is a career backup and shouldn't start under any circumstances. If they were to bring in a rookie, it could damage their potential if they're thrown into the fire.
The inability to re-sign Rodgers could force the Steelers into desperation mode.
Carr is clearly not their top choice, but if Rodgers leaves, the Steelers have limited options. Even if they select a quarterback early in the draft, they should still have a reliable veteran pushing for the starting role. While Howard has upside and a rookie could surprise, having an experienced quarterback capable of winning games may be the only realistic backup plan if Rodgers retires.