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2d ago

McCarthy Asked Rodgers to Play Preseason; Steelers Still Weigh Decision

The request forces a trade-off between in-game preparation for a 42-year-old starter and live evaluation and safety for backup quarterbacks.

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Aug 03, 2026; Latrobe, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) throws a pass during a practice session at Training camp at Saint Vincent College. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
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Jul 29, 2026; Latrobe, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) throws a pass at training camp at Saint Vincent College. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Aaron Rodgers told The Athletic that Mike McCarthy asked him to take roughly 30 to 40 plays in Pittsburgh’s first two preseason games and that he would play if McCarthy wants him to.
  • McCarthy told reporters a final call has not been made and said the team will decide closer to the games after assessing health and roster factors.
  • The two preseason opponents are the Green Bay Packers on Aug. 13 and the New York Jets on Aug. 21, which would pit Rodgers against his two former teams in exhibition play.
  • Giving Rodgers extended snaps would reduce live reps for backups Will Howard, rookie Drew Allar and Mason Rudolph and raise injury risk for a 42-year-old starter.
  • The request follows Rodgers’ role in recommending McCarthy to GM Omar Khan and comes in the quarterback’s announced final season, meaning the decision will shape both Pittsburgh’s Week 1 readiness and Rodgers’ farewell narrative.