Most who follow the Pittsburgh Steelers sense that Aaron Rodgers appears ready to come back as their starting quarterback for the 2026 season. Just because it seems increasingly likely doesn't mean that will be the outcome. No one truly knows what Rodgers has in mind heading into the offseason.
The Steelers don't want to wait things out like last year, and that could create a tough situation for Rodgers.
If there is a hard deadline before free agent negotiations begin on March 9, then Rodgers could opt to retire or wait and see if other options become available. A return to Pittsburgh continues to seem best for both parties in the immediate future, but until a contract is signed, the Steelers must have backup plans. There could be several veteran quarterbacks hitting free agency for them to go after.
Pittsburgh Steelers could target free agent quarterback to take over for Aaron Rodgers
Joe Flacco, Cincinnati Bengals
Mike McCarthy keeps saying how excited he is about Will Howard. If that's true, then the Steelers should give him a shot at winning the starting job. In that scenario, they should still consider bringing in a veteran quarterback who can slide up and down the depth chart.
Joe Flacco might not be a sexy pick as a headlining free agent target, but he might be one to consider.
Flacco has played on every AFC North division team besides the Steelers. He plans to play next season, and he is scheduled to hit free agency. He did a nice job transitioning from the Cleveland Browns to the Cincinnati Bengals in the middle of the campaign. No, Flacco shouldn't be their top choice, but he can compete with Howard for the starting job and be a backup if needed.
READ MORE: Steelers fans should circle these Pro Bowl targets as free agency nears
Kirk Cousins, Atlanta Falcons
A clear cap casualty candidate this offseason is Kirk Cousins. He signed a massive contract with the Atlanta Falcons only two years ago, but that deal soured quicker than milk on a hot day. The veteran quarterback will become a free agent and hopes to land a starting job elsewhere. Cousins has seen his reputation around the NFL sink in recent years, but he could be a cheap option for the Steelers.
Despite losing his starting job in Atlanta, Cousins started eight games this past season and 22 over the past two campaigns. During that stretch of starts, he holds a winning record of 12-10. He hasn't done anything spectacular, but McCarthy might find ways to complement his game and succeed. If Rodgers decides not to return, many will connect Cousins to Pittsburgh in free agency.
Geno Smith, Las Vegas Raiders
It was a failed era for Geno Smith with the Las Vegas Raiders, following a strong stint with the Seattle Seahawks before that. The Raiders seem eager to move in another direction, as many project them selecting Fernando Mendoza with the top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
With a rookie quarterback coming into the fold, it appears Smith will get cut, and he should have options as a free agent.
He attended college at West Virginia, and that local tie will make him an option for Pittsburgh to consider. After a slow start to his career, Smith saw a late bloom into a starting role. The Steelers shouldn't count on Smith to be a terrific quarterback for them, but like others on this list, he could compete for the starting job. Smith wouldn't be as good as Rodgers, but he could find some magic.