Overview
- ESPN’s Brooke Pryor said a decision could come in the next few weeks, with the Steelers wanting clarity before the Feb. 23–Mar. 2 NFL Combine.
- Multiple outlets report rising confidence in a return, and insider Mark Kaboly expects Rodgers to sign within the next month, though he has not committed publicly.
- Reports note Pittsburgh is prepared to be patient, but McCarthy’s arrival and his history with Rodgers are viewed as key factors increasing the likelihood of a deal.
- McCarthy has outlined a development plan for backup Will Howard and retained QB coach Tom Arth; if Rodgers returns, insiders expect the team to keep the 2025 QB room and likely skip an outside QB1 pursuit, even as some, like Ryan Clark, urge a move for a younger option such as Malik Willis.
- Rodgers threw 24 touchdowns against seven interceptions in 2025 and won the AFC North, and with roughly $45 million in cap space, the Steelers have flexibility to structure a team-friendly contract if he plays on.