The Pittsburgh Steelers and quarterback Aaron Rodgers have yet to finalize a deal for the 2026 season, a delay that has become one of the NFL's biggest offseason storylines. The Steelers entered the offseason expecting clarity, especially after owner Art Rooney II spoke confidently during the 2026 NFL Draft in April. However, weeks have passed without a resolution, raising questions about Rodgers' future in Pittsburgh.
Mike Florio Explains the Stalemate
NFL insider Mike Florio shed light on the situation during an appearance on NBC Sports. He described the negotiations as "kind of abnormal," with both sides stuck in a strange position heading into May. According to Florio, Rodgers has few outside options because no other team has seriously pursued him. Meanwhile, the Steelers cannot afford to feel too comfortable, as their quarterback depth chart lacks proven experience behind him.
Steelers Quarterback Depth
Currently, the Steelers have Mason Rudolph, Will Howard, and rookie Drew Allar in the quarterback room. Howard has not played an NFL regular-season game, and Allar is a developmental prospect from Penn State. This leaves Rodgers as the clear best option for a franchise that believes it can compete immediately.
Rodgers' 2025 Performance
Rodgers backed that belief with his performances last season. In 2025, he threw for 3,322 yards, 24 touchdowns, and seven interceptions across 16 games, completing 65.7% of his passes. He helped guide the Steelers to a 10-6 record and an AFC North title before their playoff run ended against the Houston Texans in the Wild Card round.
Financial Hurdles
The numbers have become part of the financial discussion. Rodgers played last season on a one-year deal worth $13.65 million, including $10 million guaranteed and incentive bonuses. Florio reported that Pittsburgh placed an unrestricted free-agent tender on Rodgers worth around $15 million, but the veteran quarterback seeks a salary closer to $20 million annually.
Coach McCarthy's Role
New Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy continues to stay involved in the process. McCarthy and Rodgers won Super Bowl 45 together in Green Bay, and Pittsburgh hired the veteran coach partly because of that relationship. For now, though, Rodgers' return remains unresolved, and every passing week adds pressure to both sides before training camp arrives.
