Rodgers is notoriously patient with his offseason, and it’s often difficult to determine what exactly motivates him in his decision-making process, especially over the past five years. He’s impressed with Green Bay’s effort to move him toward retirement, hoped to find a happy ending in New York that was certainly anything but happy, and seemed to strike an ideal compromise between the two in Pittsburgh, where most thought he’d spend one final season. However, his performance and the difference he made for the Steelers opened the door for a potential sequel, and after Tomlin left, Rodgers seemed open to going elsewhere.
When the Steelers hired McCarthy, a bridge opened to the running back. Time will tell if Rodgers sees himself in Pittsburgh in 2026, though.
“It’s a question for Aaron. He knows how we feel and we know how he feels about us,” Khan said. “It was a good experience for both parties … There is mutual respect there.”
Regardless of Rodgers’ decision, the Steelers know they need a long-term answer at the position. The 2026 class isn’t very strong at quarterback, but intriguing candidates like Packers backup Malik Willis are expected to be available in free agency. 2025 sixth-round pick Will Howard also returns as an interesting development option, though the Steelers didn’t get much of a look at him during his rookie season due to injuries.
“Like all the fans, we’re all looking for the next franchise player, the guy who’s going to be our quarterback for the next 10 to 15 years. It could be Will,” Khan said. “We don’t know. We’re excited to work with Will. Really enjoyed him coming out last year. Unfortunately, he got hurt and we didn’t get a chance to see him in the preseason. But we’ve been watching his progress in practice and it’s been exciting. I know the new coaching staff, especially Coach McCarthy, is really excited to work with him.”
For Khan, it’s all about fit. He knows the Steelers need a signal caller built to play in the rugged AFC North.
“There are a number of qualities, but I say we have to find the right quarterback who will be an AFC North quarterback,” Khan said. “Playing in the AFC North, there’s nothing like it. The cold weather, the competition, the division, the physicality of the league. It’s got to be the quarterback of the AFC North.”
Many options appear to be available to the Steelers as they venture into 2026. We’ll see if the most prominent player — Rodgers — is interested in returning to the board.