The Pittsburgh Steelers remain in a holding pattern as the NFL world waits for Aaron Rodgers to make a decision about his playing future. With organized team activities starting on May 27 and Pittsburgh’s quarterback room currently led by Will Howard and Mason Rudolph, the question looms large: Will Rodgers join the team, or is this all a long shot?
Why Aaron Rodgers’ Silence Could Be Steelers’ Best-Case Scenario
While most see Rodgers’ delay as a burden, one Hall of Fame executive sees something else — a hidden advantage. Speaking on SiriusXM NFL Radio’s “The Opening Drive” on May 6, longtime Hall-of-Fame NFL executive Bill Polian offered a compelling take that could reshape how the Steelers approach their offseason. According to Polian, Pittsburgh isn’t being handcuffed — they’re being given time to evaluate and prepare for all scenarios, including one that doesn’t involve Rodgers at all.
“When he makes a decision as to whether or not he wants to play is his choice and his choice alone,” Polian said. He noted that team owner Art Rooney III has already hinted Rodgers may not end up in Pittsburgh. But according to Polian, the organization doesn’t need to panic. “You have to assume [the Steelers] are going forward with what they have… but it’s important to note that these OTAs mean nothing. Nobody’s played a game. Nobody’s put a pad on.”
That long runway could be a blessing in disguise. Polian pointed out that much will change before final rosters are set in early September. “There’ll be a lot of movement, certainly at the cut to 53, at an absolute minimum,” he said. “Trades are always possible … The Steelers have a lot of time to go.”
That time gives Pittsburgh something every team covets: Optionality. They now get a closer, extended look at Will Howard, the strong-armed rookie some believe physically resembles a young Ben Roethlisberger. “There’s a lot of similarities between Will Howard and Big Ben,” Polian observed, while adding a measured reminder not to rush comparisons. “Now, I don’t want to make him Big Ben … but the big body, the ability to move around and make plays, the arm strength — it’s all there.”
Polian added that this moment gives Howard and Rudolph a real shot to prove they belong. “They get a real chance to take a long look at Will Howard all the way through camp … and Mason Rudolph as well. Then say, look, this looks pretty good here, we’re all right with this.”
Meanwhile, behind the scenes, general manager Omar Khan may already be working on contingency plans. On May 7, the Steelers traded star receiver George Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys — a surprising move that created buzz across the league. Insiders now speculate that Pittsburgh could pursue Rodgers’ former weapons, including Allen Lazard or Romeo Doubs. Both wideouts are potentially available after the Jets and Packers each drafted multiple receivers this spring.
If Rodgers eventually decides to play, he could still walk into a situation tailored to his preferences. If not, the Steelers might end up with a roster shaped around younger, more long-term solutions. Either way, Polian believes the delay gives Pittsburgh time — and time, he suggests, is a strategic asset.