NFL

NFL News: Mike Tomlin and Steelers have reportedly made final decision between Aaron Rodgers and Kirk Cousins

Mike Tomlin and the Steelers may have finally drawn the line between two of the biggest quarterback names available. After weeks of speculation and internal debate, Pittsburgh has reportedly made its final call between Aaron Rodgers and Kirk Cousins, and the decision could reshape the team's path toward a Super Bowl run in 2025.

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May 24, 2025 11:51AM EDT

**© Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images**Mike Tomlin head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers

Mike Tomlin and the Pittsburgh Steelers still haven’t ruled out Kirk Cousins as a possible quarterback for the upcoming season. According to a report by Jeremy Fowler, everything depends on Aaron Rodgers and his final decision.

“Aaron Rodgers is Plan A and Kirk Cousins could be a viable Plan B. After making some calls, I do believe he’s been on their radar. If something were to fall through with Rodgers, certainly they could reconvene, call Atlanta and see if they could shake something out. But, right now, Rodgers is the guy.”

For several weeks now, general manager Omar Khan has made it clear that the Steelers are not thinking about a rebuild for the future and want to compete for the Super Bowl in 2025. Rodgers or Cousins could increase those chances.

Who will be next Steelers starting quarterback?

Aaron Rodgers is the top priority to be the next starting quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, in a very intriguing piece of information, Fowler hinted that Kirk Cousins is now truly a realistic alternative plan.

The shift is significant because, for many weeks, reports indicated that Mike Tomlin was comfortable with Mason Rudolph. However, with the promise to sign a second veteran by Khan, regardless of whether it’s Rodgers or not, Cousins enters the discussion.

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Will Falcons trade Kirk Cousins?

The Falcons might be willing to trade Kirk Cousins, but they want something significant in return after giving the quarterback $100 million guaranteed. In addition to proper draft pick compensation, one thing that could complicate the deal is that Atlanta wants Pittsburgh or any interested team to absorb most of the player’s salary.

Despite the massive contract he received in 2024, Cousins already knows he will be a backup in Atlanta due to the meteoric rise of Michael Penix Jr. Because of that, Kirk is looking for a fresh start elsewhere.