The Pittsburgh Steelers have been patient with veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, but their window to make a quarterback decision is narrowing. Rodgers, a four-time MVP and Super Bowl champ, is nearing 42 and seen as a short-term option. According to ESPN’s Mina Kimes, his indecision about signing shouldn’t sway Pittsburgh’s strategy heading into next week’s NFL Draft, where they hold the 21st overall pick. Prospects like Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders or Ole Miss’ Jaxson Dart could be available then.
With only Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson on the roster—neither of whom has solidified himself as a dependable starter—the Steelers are expected to draft a rookie QB. Still, they’ll likely need a more experienced option in 2025.
On April 17, Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton suggested that if Rodgers doesn’t commit soon, Pittsburgh might trade for Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins. The Falcons are transitioning to Michael Penix Jr., which may prompt Cousins—who has started consistently since 2015—to look for a new opportunity.
The Cleveland Browns could also be in the mix for Cousins, but it’s less likely. They’ve recently traded for Kenny Pickett, signed Joe Flacco, and are waiting on Deshaun Watson’s recovery from dual Achilles injuries. With four QBs possibly on their 2025 roster and salary cap challenges, Cleveland is unlikely to outbid Pittsburgh for Cousins.