The Pittsburgh Steelers have always been a franchise known for stability at the quarterback position. From Terry Bradshaw to Ben Roethlisberger, the team has rarely found itself in a desperate search for a long-term signal-caller. However, as the 2025 NFL offseason approaches, rumors are swirling that the Steelers could make a major splash by pursuing Aaron Rodgers while also eyeing a top quarterback prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft.
This potential two-pronged approach would be a bold strategy for a team that has been stuck in mediocrity since Roethlisberger’s retirement. With Kenny Pickett’s future uncertain and Mason Rudolph serving as a stopgap, Pittsburgh may be looking to secure both an immediate veteran upgrade and a future franchise quarterback.
In this article, we’ll break down:
- Why the Steelers might pursue Aaron Rodgers
- Potential trade scenarios for Rodgers
- Top QB prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft
- How Pittsburgh could balance a veteran and a rookie QB
- The long-term implications for the franchise
Why the Steelers Might Pursue Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers, despite his age (he’ll be 41 by the start of the 2025 season), remains one of the most talented quarterbacks in the league when healthy. After a brief but impactful stint with the New York Jets—cut short by an Achilles injury in 2023—Rodgers has shown he can still play at an elite level.
Reasons Pittsburgh Would Want Rodgers:
- Win-Now Mentality – The Steelers have a strong defense, a solid offensive line, and explosive playmakers like George Pickens and Pat Freiermuth. Adding a quarterback of Rodgers’ caliber could instantly make them Super Bowl contenders.
- Leadership & Experience – Pittsburgh’s young QB room (Pickett, Rudolph, or a rookie) could benefit from Rodgers’ mentorship.
- Short-Term Solution – If the Steelers draft a QB in 2025, Rodgers could serve as a bridge starter while the rookie develops.
However, acquiring Rodgers wouldn’t be simple. The Jets would likely demand significant draft compensation, and Rodgers’ contract (which carries a hefty cap hit) would require restructuring.
Potential Trade Scenarios for Aaron Rodgers
If the Jets decide to move on from Rodgers—either due to his age, injury concerns, or a desire to rebuild—Pittsburgh could emerge as a logical destination.
Possible Trade Package:
- Steelers Receive: Aaron Rodgers
- Jets Receive: 2025 2nd-round pick, 2026 conditional pick (could escalate to a 1st if Rodgers plays 75% of snaps)
Given Rodgers’ age and injury history, the Jets may not command a massive haul. However, if multiple teams are interested, the price could rise.
Cap Implications:
Rodgers is due $38 million in 2025, but the Steelers could restructure the deal to lower his cap hit. General Manager Omar Khan has been savvy with contracts, making this a feasible move.
Top QB Prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft
Even if the Steelers land Rodgers, they may still target a quarterback in the 2025 draft to secure their future. Here are some potential options:
1. Carson Beck (Georgia)
- Strengths: Elite arm talent, pro-style offense experience, high football IQ
- Fit in Pittsburgh: Beck could sit behind Rodgers for a year before taking over.
2. Quinn Ewers (Texas)
- Strengths: Big arm, improvisational skills, improved accuracy
- Concerns: Needs to refine decision-making under pressure
3. Shedeur Sanders (Colorado)
- Strengths: Poise in the pocket, quick release, NFL bloodlines (Deion Sanders’ son)
- Concerns: Needs to prove himself against top-tier competition
4. Drew Allar (Penn State)
- Strengths: Prototypical size (6’5”, 240 lbs), strong arm, good mobility
- Fit in Pittsburgh: A local favorite who could thrive in a run-heavy offense
If the Steelers don’t land a top-10 pick, they may need to trade up to secure one of these prospects.
How Pittsburgh Could Balance Rodgers and a Rookie QB
The ideal scenario for the Steelers would be:
- Trade for Rodgers in early 2025 – Give him the reins for at least one season.
- Draft a QB in Round 1 – Let the rookie learn behind a future Hall of Famer.
- Transition in 2026 – If Rodgers retires or declines, the young QB takes over.
This approach mirrors what the Packers did with Rodgers and Jordan Love—except Pittsburgh would be accelerating the timeline.
Long-Term Implications for the Steelers
If executed correctly, this strategy could:
- Return the Steelers to Super Bowl contention (with Rodgers)
- Secure the QB position for the next decade (with a high-upside rookie)
- Avoid a lengthy rebuild by not relying solely on a young QB
However, there are risks:
- Rodgers’ health – If he gets injured again, the team could be stuck in QB purgatory.
- Draft miss – If the rookie QB doesn’t pan out, the franchise could face another prolonged search.
Final Thoughts
The Steelers are at a crossroads. Do they stick with Kenny Pickett and hope he develops? Do they roll the dice on a rookie? Or do they make a bold move for Aaron Rodgers while also drafting his successor?
The 2025 offseason could define Pittsburgh’s trajectory for years to come. If they land Rodgers and a top QB prospect, they could set themselves up for sustained success. If they miss, they risk falling further behind in a competitive AFC.