Steelers Have New Competition for Aaron Rodgers

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers are waiting for Aaron Rodgers, but as they land back home, returning from the 2026 NFL League Meetings, the sense is that their 42-year-old quarterback will return for one more run.

"It does sound like the Rodgers thing in Pittsburgh is happening," ESPN's Adam Schefter reported. "He and McCarthy are talking every day. Why are they talking every day if he’s not going back? It just is not official. It’s not contractual, I was told. I don’t know where they’re at, it’s just, it’s Aaron being Aaron.”

But they may have competition. According to Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio, there may be another name emerging as competition.

Florio believes that the Denver Broncos could become a name to watch for Rodgers, with quarterback Bo Nix recovering from a fracuted ankle that he suffered in the Divisional Round of the 2025 playoffs.

"There’s talk of the Broncos possibly bringing Rodgers in for a visit. The motivation comes from the possibility that current starter Bo Nix won’t be fully and completely back to 100 percent when Week 1 rolls around," Florio reports.

Florio made sure to clarify that it is not an April Fool's Day joke that Rodgers could visit Denver.

Maybe Florio is correct and Rodgers could have interest from Denver, but there doesn't seem to be much backing that - and on the Steelers' side of things, there seems to be no questions about him leaving for other teams.

Steelers Expect an Answer From Rodgers Soon

Steelers Team President Art Rooney II shared his belief at the League Meetings that Rodgers should give the team answer before the 2026 NFL Draft.

"I have not talked to him. Coach [Mike McCarthy] has been in contact with him pretty regularly, and I think a decision is probably coming soon," Rooney said. "... I would say by the draft, I expect an answer."

It's expected that the answer from Rodgers will be a yes to returning. That he will lead the Steelers offense for another season with the additions of Michael Pittman Jr. and likely a wide receiver draft pick joining his receiver core.

What doesn't feel likely is Rodgers leaving for another team. Despite being a free agent, Rodgers has spoken with head coach Mike McCarthy multiple times over the last several weeks and seems locked in on choosing between Pittsburgh and retirement.

Maybe the Broncos could sneak their way into the conversation, but until there is evidence of it happening, it doesn't seem likely.

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