The NFL has had a busy week with deals. The team not only signed free agents, but also made several deals.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have been active on both fronts. They signed players like Jamel Dean and Rico Dowdle and also traded for wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr.
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But the biggest problem remains at the quarterback position. Once again, the situation revolves around veteran Aaron Rodgers.
January 12, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud (7) greets Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers after the AFC Wild Card round game at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Image
Should I go again?
Last year, Rodgers dragged his feet through the process before finally signing a one-year deal just before minicamp began. Now he appears undecided on whether he wants to play in 2026.
It is reasonable to hesitate. Rodgers is 43 years old, approaching 44, and injuries have piled up over the past few seasons. That kind of wear and tear takes its toll.
What I don’t understand is why the Steelers seem willing to go through this process again.
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The quarterback is already off the market and Pittsburgh may not even have a realistic chance at a QB2 in the draft. Instead, the team will be searching again for a shelf aging veteran like Rodgers, Kirk Cousins or Jimmy Garoppolo.
What more could you need?
Rodgers will return with a familiar head coach and a revamped supporting cast. The Steelers have upgraded their wide receiver and running back rooms, and the defense has also made some strong additions.
So what is identity? Is he playing?
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The Steelers have to make a deadline or move on. Rodgers can still offer the best option, but he can’t delay it in the same way as 2025.
Rodgers provided the Steelers with capable quarterback play last season, but that doesn’t mean he should hold the team’s plans hostage.
Should Pittsburgh Close? Probably not yet. But the Steelers need Rodgers to clarify his plans.
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(tagsTotranslation)Aaron Rodgers
