Pittsburgh Steelers Prepare for Life Beyond Aaron Rodgers, Explore Quarterback Alternatives
As the Aaron Rodgers free agency saga drags on with no clear resolution in sight, the Pittsburgh Steelers are making moves that indicate they aren’t putting all their eggs in one basket. While the franchise has expressed ongoing interest in securing the future Hall of Famer, it has become increasingly apparent that the Steelers are also preparing for a scenario in which Rodgers doesn’t sign. This shift in strategy has prompted the team to explore multiple avenues for adding quarterback depth, whether through a veteran presence, a rookie prospect, or other strategic moves.
Steelersโ president Art Rooney II has made it clear that while they are willing to wait for Rodgers to make a decision, their patience is not infinite. The front office is taking proactive steps to ensure they aren’t left scrambling for solutions if Rodgers opts to go elsewhere or retire. General manager Omar Khan has echoed this sentiment, stating that the team would add a veteran quarterback to their roster if needed, signaling a readiness to pivot away from their Rodgers pursuit if necessary.
At present, the Steelers’ backup plan revolves around Mason Rudolph, who has been with the team for several years. While the franchise remains “comfortable” with Rudolph, they are not content to simply rely on him as their sole contingency. This cautious approach has led Pittsburgh to explore other options to bolster their quarterback room and ensure they have a strong backup plan should the Rodgers situation fall through.
One of the team’s recent moves involved an attempt to acquire quarterback Joe Milton from the New England Patriots, according to FOX Sports’ NFL insider Jordan Schultz. The Steelers reportedly made an offer for Milton, who was eventually traded to the Dallas Cowboys for a late-round pick. It remains unclear whether the Steelersโ offer fell short or if the Cowboys acted faster, but itโs evident that Pittsburgh was willing to be aggressive in adding another quarterback. The move highlights the team’s preparedness to enhance their depth and competition at the position.
The pursuit of Milton is just one example of the Steelers’ strategic thinking. While they continue to wait for a resolution with Rodgers, the team is covering its bases by exploring various quarterback options. Whether they land a veteran or find a promising rookie, the Steelers are positioning themselves to remain competitive, regardless of which direction Rodgers ultimately chooses. This proactive approach ensures that Pittsburgh won’t be caught unprepared, even if their primary target decides to go elsewhere.