Aaron Rodgers has yet to decide his NFL future. However, some, like Ben Roethlisberger, believe that Michael Pittman Jr.’s arrival is reason enough for him to play one more year with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
“I love the Pittman pickup,” Roethlisberger stated on the Deebo & Joe podcast. “I think it’s something that screams, ‘Hey, Aaron Rodgers, come on. We’re giving you these weapons.’“
Secrecy at this stage of the offseason is complete. However, even Pittman himself believes that Rodgers will return to the NFL, at least for a little while longer.
Rodgers’ weapons in Steel City
If Aaron Rodgers commits to the 2026 season, he will lead a high-powered offense featuring an elite receiving duo in DK Metcalf and newly acquired Michael Pittman Jr., alongside young playmaker Roman Wilson. The backfield offers a versatile punch with the hard-running Rico Dowdle and the explosive Jaylen Warren, giving the veteran quarterback one of the most balanced supporting casts of his legendary career.
Aaron Rodgers #8 of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
McCarthy explores alternatives
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Mike McCarthy gets excited about a potential Aaron Rodgers return to Pittsburgh
The Pittsburgh Steelers face a pivotal crossroads at quarterback as they await Aaron Rodgers’ decision for the 2026 season. If the veteran retires, the team is currently headlined by Mason Rudolph, who remains a reliable, experienced bridge-starter familiar with the organization’s culture.
In contrast, the Steelers are also high on the developmental upside of Will Howard, the 2025 draft pick who spent his rookie year learning the system and is now positioned to compete for the starting role under Mike McCarthy’s new offensive regime.
Pittsburgh needs to return to the Super Bowl
The Steelers are currently facing one of the longest droughts in their storied history, making a return to the Super Bowl an absolute necessity for the franchise’s legacy. It has been 15 years since their last appearance in Super Bowl XLV and 17 years since they secured their last championship ring in Super Bowl XLIII.
The urgency reached a breaking point this past January 2026, when Pittsburgh suffered a frustrating 30-6 Wild Card loss to the Houston Texans, extending its postseason losing streak to seven games and leaving the fanbase desperate for a deep playoff run.
