The Vikings May Completely Ruin The Steelers' Plans For Mike McCarthy's First Season In Pittsburgh

For yet another offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers have questions at the quarterback position. With a very questionable 2026 NFL Draft class coming out of the college ranks, it's very possible that the team goes through another one-year plan that keeps them competitive, but doesn't provide any answers for the long-term future. The top individual that fans will keep an eye on is Aaron Rodgers, who had a respectable 2025 campaign in the Steel City. He is once again considering retirement; however, his decision-making process is not expected to drag out until June, which would mean an answer is coming soon.

The Steelers only signed the veteran to a one-year deal back in June of 2025, which actually opens him up on the free agency market come the new league year if he decides to return, but look at other options. The hiring of Mike McCarthy should help Pittsburgh's case; however, Rodgers has never been one to go with the grain. Anything could happen in the coming weeks regarding the future Hall of Famer.

Rodgers keeps everything very close to his inner-circle, so it's really difficult for anyone to get a read on what he may end up doing. If anyone could have somewhat of an inside scoop, it's top league insider Adam Schefter, who addressed the situation on an episode of his podcast that was released on Tuesday. The Steelers may not be the only team involved in desiring the four-time MVP's services.

"It sounds like, and again it's Aaron Rodgers so you never fully know, sounds like he's more likely than not to be back today," Schefter said. "I think the feeling is he could be back with the Pittsburgh Steelers. If we go back to last year, he wanted to play in Minnesota."

While Pittsburgh is being looked at as the favorite to land Rodgers if he doesn't wish to retire; a lot can change, and he may not want to commit too early if he believes he has an opportunity to start for the Minnesota Vikings. Schefter continued to explore the possibility, and believes there is more of a chance of it happening compared to 2025, when JJ McCarthy was the top priority for Head Coach Kevin O'Connell.

"That's the interesting one to me, right? Like, I don't know how Aaron Rodgers feels and I don't know exactly how the Vikings feel, and they didn't want to do that last year because I think they were being protective of JJ McCarthy. Do they still feel the same way, or is Aaron Rodgers more of a conversation? Again, with the man of mystery, there are some real mysteries here as to when he's going to announce what he's doing, whether he is or isn't coming back."

The story continues to get more interesting for the Steelers. All signs point to the team wanting an answer by the start of the new league year, and it's very possible if a decision does not come, Pittsburgh and General Manager Omar Khan could simply thank Rodgers for his efforts in 2025 and then move onto another solution at the quarterback position.

It would be great if McCarthy could settle in during his first year as the Steelers' head coach. The best way to do this would be familiarity, and Rodgers would provide exactly that because of the duo's relationship. The veteran quarterback can be trusted without needing any coaching, and this setup would allow for McCarthy to work closely with Will Howard. The Vikings, however, may have other plans that disrupt these possibilities.

Steelers Still Have Options Outside Of Rodgers

While the free agency group isn't stout, there are potential signees that Pittsburgh could have interest in. Malik Willis is the first that comes to mind, and Mac Jones may also be available via trade. There's also the scenario of Howard being trotted out so the team can see what it has in the former sixth-round selection. It appears as if Rodgers returning is the preference, but O'Connell and co. may absolutely throw a wrench into those alleged plans.

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