The Pittsburgh Steelers, guided by Mike McCarthy, face a crucial decision at quarterback for the 2026 season, as the new head coach aims to modernize the offense and maximize its potential, whilst developing a new elite passer.
Aaron Rodgers delivered a productive season, leading the team to the AFC North title and a 22nd consecutive non-losing campaign, yet his limited mobility contrasts with the speed and versatility today’s NFL offenses demand, leaving space for a younger alternative.
And that’s how Emory Hunt suggests, thinking the team should move towards Malik Willis out of the Green Bay Packers and leave the 42-year-old Rodgers behind going forwards.
“I think he makes an ideal fit, to be completely honest,” Hunt said. “For Pittsburgh, for the city, and also for Mike McCarthy. McCarthy can envision him as the new version of Dak Prescott.
“When Dak came in, Dak was more of an explosive runner. He’s not that now, but Malik Willis still has that capability in his bag.
“And also, we’ve seen growth from him in passing the football because he’s gotten more opportunities to get out of there and on the field.”
Willis emerges as McCarthy’s potential franchise quarterback
Willis, currently with the Green Bay Packers, offers Pittsburgh a rare dual-threat talent, averaging 105.5 passing yards per game in 2025, throwing three touchdowns with zero interceptions, and completing 85.7% of limited attempts, while also threatening defenses with his legs.
Though his numbers are modest compared to Rodgers, who played all 16 games, averaging 207.6 passing yards, completing 24 touchdowns against seven interceptions, the veteran’s pocket presence contrasts with Willis‘ ability to improvise and extend plays under pressure, making him a dynamic weapon.
The young quarterback’s agility, speed, and improvisational skill align perfectly with McCarthy‘s vision, providing the Steelers a ceiling Rodgers cannot match, while the veteran offensive line and skilled wide receivers could amplify his dual-threat potential in a high-octane attack.
In addition, Pittsburgh could leverage the upcoming NFL Draft to bolster offensive weapons around Willis, selecting a dynamic wide receiver or a versatile tight end.
They could give the quarterback more options in the passing game, and pairing his running ability with explosive targets to maximize McCarthy‘s creative offensive schemes – if he opts to join the Steelers.
For now Pittsburgh has given Rodgers a month to decide whether to return, given their shared Super Bowl history. Still, the promise of long-term upside and athleticism might encourage the franchise to favor the younger option, aiming to secure success for multiple seasons.
With a top-tier defense and a roster filled with veterans, the Steelers now balance experience against potential, short-term performance against long-term growth, as McCarthy seeks a quarterback capable of winning immediately while anchoring the franchise’s future.