The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially wrapped up the 2025 NFL Draft, passing on Shedeur Sanders despite multiple opportunities to select him. Rather than chasing headlines, they stayed disciplined, addressed critical roster needs, and walked away with a solid group of additions. One of the most intriguing picks came in the sixth round with quarterback Will Howard—a developmental prospect who adds depth without requiring significant draft capital. The front office remained focused and avoided emotional decisions, sticking to their draft board from start to finish.
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Former New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers nods to acknowledge someone speaking in his direction.
The Steelers now shift their focus to Aaron Rodgers, whose future with the team remains uncertain. At 41 years old, Rodgers is widely expected to be the starter this season, but he has yet to make anything official. While the team continues to operate as if Rodgers will return, the clock is ticking with Organized Team Activities fast approaching. If he chooses to retire or walk away, Pittsburgh will need to pivot quickly and reassess their quarterback strategy.
NFL insider Jeremy Fowler appeared on NFL Live Friday to provide the latest update on Rodgers’ status. According to Fowler—echoing earlier reports—signs still point toward Rodgers eventually making his way to Pittsburgh. When that moment will come remains a mystery—one that's wearing thin on the nerves of Steelers fans. The wait drags on, but all signs still suggest Rodgers is firmly in play.
"All signs continue to point to Aaron Rodgers being in Pittsburgh," Fowler said.
Still, even with signs pointing toward Rodgers eventually landing in Pittsburgh, Steelers fans are running out of patience. The excitement that followed his initial connection to the team has gradually shifted into anxiety, frustration, and doubt. With Organized Team Activities just around the corner, the silence has become deafening—and fans want answers now, not later.
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Former New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers puts both his arms in the air to celebrate a big time touchdown at home during the 2024 NFL season.
Inside the building, the Steelers continue to project confidence, but they know they’re operating on borrowed time. Head Coach Mike Tomlin has been calm in front of cameras, but the reality is clear: the team needs to know who their quarterback is going to be. Offensive installs, first-team reps, leadership responsibilities—it all hinges on Rodgers showing up and taking the reins. Until then, Pittsburgh is stuck in a holding pattern.
If Rodgers decides to retire or back out, Mason Rudolph would be the next man up. Rudolph returned to the Steel City after a season away earlier this offseason. Rudolph gives the team a sense of stability—he knows the system, has experience with the coaching staff, and has proven he can keep the offense afloat. Howard, taken in the sixth round of the draft, is an intriguing developmental option, but he’s unlikely to seriously challenge Rudolph for the starting job in 2025 unless something unexpected happens.
So now, the Steelers wait—along with an increasingly restless fan base. They built this offseason around Rodgers, and they're still banking on him walking through the door. However, with each passing day of silence, the risk grows louder: if Rodgers doesn't come, Pittsburgh's entire plan is in danger of falling apart before the season even begins.
Steelers Believe They Can Win A Super Bowl With Aaron Rodgers
A major point of contention among Steelers fans has been Rodgers’ age. The 41-year-old quarterback is undeniably a polarizing figure, and many fans worry he’ll bring more baggage than success. This is precisely why the fanbase was split when reports first surfaced that the Steelers were seriously pursuing him. After all, Rodgers only won five games with the New York Jets in 2024, raising doubts about his ability to lead a team to success.
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Former Packers QB Aaron Rodgers celebrates a score in the Super Bowl.
However, Tomlin and the Steelers’ front office remain confident. They believe Rodgers can still win a Super Bowl in 2025. After a rough start to the 2024 season, Rodgers began to play at a high level as the year progressed. This late resurgence has given Pittsburgh enough faith to go all in on him. In the worst-case scenario, the Steelers may be forced to roll with Rudolph or Howard. But the best-case scenario remains Rodgers at the helm—and when that happens still remains an irritating mystery.
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