Pittsburgh used a sixth-round pick in the 2025 NFL draft to select Ohio State quarterback Will Howard, adding him to a QB room that includes veteran backups Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson. None of them is considered a viable starter for the 2025 season, leaving the Steelers with no choice but to continue hoping that Rodgers signs with them.

To support his bold take, Rapoport referenced Steelers President Art Rooney II's comments about being confident Rodgers will sign with the Steelers. The insider clarified that the only time he felt unsure of the signing was when he heard the four-time MVP discuss retirement as a possibility.

She wrote that the move suggested that, for individuals associated with the Steelers such as team owner and president Art Rooney II, "(Aaron) Rodgers was very much present in thei