The Pittsburgh Steelers are still waiting for clarity on Aaron Rodgers‘ future, but behind the scenes, the team may already have a contingency plan if the veteran quarterback decides not to return.
According to reports, insiders around the organization suggest that head coach Mike McCarthy and the Steelers‘ front office have been quietly evaluating alternative quarterback options while they await Rodgers‘ decision.
Rodgers‘ status remains one of the biggest unresolved storylines of the offseason. The future Hall of Famer has not yet committed to playing another season, leaving Pittsburgh in a delicate position as free agency and roster planning move forward.
While the Steelers would likely welcome Rodgers back if he chooses to continue his career, the organization cannot afford to sit idle indefinitely. That reality appears to be driving the Pittsburgh Steelers‘ rumored contingency plan.
Pittsburgh preparing for every possible scenario
The connection between Rodgers and McCarthy – who previously won a Super Bowl together with the Green Bay Packers – initially fueled speculation that Rodgers might easily return under his former coach.
However, uncertainty still surrounds Rodgers‘ plans. At 42 years old, he’s openly discussed retirement possibilities, and no official decision has been made about his future in the NFL.
Because of that uncertainty, the Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly evaluating alternative quarterbacks who could step in if Rodgers decides to walk away.
One intriguing quarterback option gaining traction for the Steelers is Malik Willis, a dual-threat signal-caller who is expected to headline the free-agent quarterback class this offseason.
Unlike other veteran stopgaps, Willis brings a blend of athleticism and upside that could appeal to head coach Mike McCarthy, who has shown a willingness in his career to tailor offenses to playmakers with Willis’ talent to make plays.
While some of the Steelers’ contingency discussions have centered on seasoned veterans like Jacoby Brissett, Willis represents a more dynamic alternative should Pittsburgh choose to pivot toward the future.
The 26-year-old has logged limited starting experience in his four-year NFL career, three with the Green Bay Packers and three with the Tennessee Titans, but his recent run with Green Bay rekindled interest around the league.
In 2025 alone, Willis completed 85.7% of his passes for 422 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions in relief, adding 123 rushing yards and two touchdowns on the ground.
As the season progresses, the possibility of moving forward without Rodgers would represent a significant shift for the Steelers.
If Rodgers ultimately decides to retire or pursue a different path, the Steelers may have to pivot quickly.