Steelers Make Quarterback Decision After Aaron Rodgers News
The Pittsburgh Steelers and Aaron Rodgers completed their first season together in 2025. Rodgers started all 16 games, throwing for 3,322 yards on 327 completions from 498 attempts. He finished with a 65.7% completion rate, 24 touchdowns, and seven interceptions for a 94.8 passer rating.
He also added 61 rushing yards and one touchdown on the ground, helping Pittsburgh remain competitive throughout the season while showing he could still perform at a high level at age 42.
Rodgers is now a free agent, and the Steelers have made it clear they are open to bringing him back if he decides to continue playing.
On Monday, however, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported that Pittsburgh has not yet received a decision from Rodgers regarding his future. There is also no expectation that he will make a final call before the NFL Draft.
The report also noted that as offseason workouts begin under new head coach Mike McCarthy, the Steelers have officially named Will Howard as QB1 for now.
The #Steelers have not received word from Aaron Rodgers on his future and there is no expectation of a final decision prior to the NFL Draft, per me and @TomPelissero.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 20, 2026
When offseason workouts begin today under new coach Mike McCarthy, Will Howard will be QB1. pic.twitter.com/he06AKmhcl
Howard, a sixth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft out of Ohio State, spent his rookie season as Rodgers' backup. He appeared in one game, did not make a start, but gained experience through practice reps and sideline work.
His outlook for 2026 remains uncertain. Howard could see an expanded role if Rodgers does not return, but his standing on the depth chart will remain fluid as the team waits on the veteran's decision.
With offseason workouts now underway, Pittsburgh will continue evaluating its quarterback options while keeping the door open for Rodgers' potential return.
Related: Steelers Make Decision Before Aaron Rodgers' 22nd NFL Season
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This story was originally published April 20, 2026 at 8:12 AM.