Aaron Rodgers’ future with the Pittsburgh Steelers remains one of the most closely watched storylines of the NFL offseason, and the uncertainty could shape the franchise’s longterm direction at the most important position in football.
Rodgers has yet to announce whether he will play in 2026, leaving fans and team executives in suspense. Some insiders believe he may return, citing his recent productive seasons, while others, including CBS reporter Aditi Kinkhabwala, suggest his playing days are likely over.
Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, posted solid numbers in 2025, completing 65.7 % of his passes for 3,322 yards with 24 touchdowns and only seven interceptions, showing that he remains capable even if he’s no longer considered a top quarterback.
“Having spoken to people who were around him, who have been around him, most everyone that I’ve spoken to who has been around him feels that the chance that he comes back to play is minuscule,” Kinkhabwala said.
This uncertainty has prompted the Steelers to begin examining potential replacements. One name gaining traction among analysts is Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, a promising prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Simpson, who earned his starting role at Alabama in 2025 after waiting behind more established quarterbacks, impressed scouts with his poise and ability to rally his team under pressure. Over the season, he completed 64.5 % of his passes for 3,567 yards, throwing 28 touchdowns against only five interceptions.
His performance helped Alabama reach the College Football Playoff, showcasing his ability to perform in high-stakes games.
Why Ty Simpson could appeal to the Steelers
?NFL analysts have highlighted Simpson as a quarterback with a skill set well-suited for the Steelers’ system under offensive coordinator Mike McCarthy. ESPN’s Louis Riddick recently remarked that Simpson is “tailor-made” for McCarthy‘s offense, pointing to his quick decision-making and accuracy in intermediate routes as major assets.
Simpson also demonstrated resilience in the latter half of the college season, engineering comebacks and showing leadership qualities that could translate to the professional level.
While some prospects may require a lengthy adjustment period, Simpson‘s football IQ and ability to process defenses quickly suggest he could contribute sooner rather than later.
However, Simpson is not without challenges. His deep-ball accuracy has been inconsistent at times, and he has only one season of full-time starting experience against elite competition. Some evaluators view him as a developmental quarterback who could benefit from mentorship, potentially from Rodgers, should the veteran decide to return for one final season.
The Steelers’ front office must weigh these factors carefully as they look for a long-term solution at quarterback despite the risk of selecting a player who may need time to fully adjust to the NFL.
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches in April, Pittsburgh faces a pivotal decision. Rodgers‘ potential retirement could open the door for Simpson to become the franchise quarterback, but the team must act to ensure stability at a position that has defined the NFL for decades.
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