Facing uncertainty around veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ future, the Pittsburgh Steelers are actively exploring quarterback options at the 2026 NFL Combine. With Rodgers, a future Hall of Famer, nearing 43 and contemplating retirement, the Steelers are considering potential successors from the upcoming draft class to secure their quarterback depth going forward.
Steelers Meet Promising Quarterbacks at the NFL Combine
This week, the Steelers held formal meetings with three of the top quarterback prospects eligible for the 2026 NFL Draft. Alabama’s Ty Simpson, Penn State’s Drew Allar, and Miami’s Carson Beck attracted the team’s attention as possible future leaders under center. According to Mike Defabo of The Athletic, all three players made positive impressions during their conversations with Pittsburgh’s coaching staff.
The Steelers met formally with three quarterbacks this week: Alabama’s Ty Simpson, a potential first-round pick, Penn State’s Drew Allar, and Miami’s Carson Beck,
wrote Mike Defabo in the New York Times.
I heard from several people that all three had positive meetings. At least above the neck, they put their best foot forward.
— Mike Defabo, The Athletic
Head coach Mike McCarthy, in his first season with the Steelers, is leading the pre-draft evaluations and has prioritized talks with these quarterbacks as part of the team’s preparation for the future.
Profiles and Potential of Top Quarterback Prospects
Among the three quarterbacks, Ty Simpson is regarded as the second most sought-after prospect behind likely first overall pick Fernando Mendoza, expected to join the Las Vegas Raiders. In Simpson’s first season as a starter at Alabama, he delivered impressive statistics, including over 3,500 passing yards and 28 touchdown passes. Additionally, Simpson has demonstrated mobility with two rushing touchdowns, highlighting his dual-threat capability. However, his limited experience is a concern, as he has started only 15 games—a sample size that historically has not always translated to NFL success, as seen with players like Anthony Richardson of the Colts and Mitchell Trubisky of the Bills.
Drew Allar and Carson Beck present a contrasting profile with more substantial collegiate experience. Allar, despite missing a season due to an ankle injury, has appeared in over 30 games across four seasons at Penn State. Similarly, Carson Beck has an even more extensive resume with 43 games played between Georgia and Miami Hurricanes.
Beck’s college achievements include two National Championships with Georgia in 2021 and 2022, and a strong 2025 season culminating in 3,813 passing yards, 30 touchdowns, and a quality rating (QBR) of 81.8. Although his team fell short in a third championship appearance this year, his experience in high-pressure situations makes him an intriguing candidate for the Steelers.
Overall, all three quarterbacks are considered capable, with multiple other NFL franchises reportedly tracking them closely. Pittsburgh’s recruitment efforts indicate a clear intent to prepare for a possible post-Rodgers era, balancing optimism with prudence.
Increasing Doubt Over Aaron Rodgers Returning for 2026
At age 42, Aaron Rodgers remains one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks but faces growing speculation about whether he will continue his career. Mike McCarthy has acknowledged ongoing discussions with Rodgers while also preparing for the potential outcome of retirement to safeguard the franchise’s future.
We’ll see what the future holds. We’re definitely preparing for both scenarios,
McCarthy told ESPN Milwaukee via X.
We’re definitely preparing for both scenarios.
— Mike McCarthy, Head Coach
In the 2025 season, Rodgers completed more than 65% of his pass attempts, amassing 3,322 yards and throwing 24 touchdowns, playing a pivotal role in steering the Steelers to an AFC North title and a playoff berth. His decision will heavily influence the Steelers’ quarterback plans for the upcoming year.
Options on the Table If Rodgers Steps Away
If Rodgers returns, the Steelers could comfortably rely on Will Howard as a backup quarterback. However, should Rodgers retire, the franchise faces a more pressing dilemma about who will lead the offense. McCarthy must weigh three main options: pursuing a quarterback through free agency, promoting Howard to the starting role, or selecting a quarterback in the upcoming draft. Holding the 21st pick in the first round presents challenges in securing the quarterback of their preference, given the top prospects might be off the board early.
Fortunately, the Steelers’ financial position remains healthy with ample salary cap space, allowing them flexibility in negotiations should they target free agent quarterbacks. The organization’s readiness to pivot between these choices shows a proactive approach amid uncertain times.
Looking Ahead: The Steelers’ Quarterback Future
The Steelers stand at a crossroads with Aaron Rodgers’ career potentially concluding, which marks a major transition period for a franchise relying on a quarterback known for his leadership and consistency. With the 2026 quarterback draft class featuring promising talent like Ty Simpson, Drew Allar, and Carson Beck, Pittsburgh has multiple paths to maintain competitiveness.
How the team navigates Rodgers’ decision will impact roster construction, draft strategy, and possibly the franchise’s direction over the next several seasons. The coming weeks and months, as Rodgers finalizes his future, will be crucial as the Steelers aim to balance respect for a legend with prudent planning for what lies ahead.
Mike McCarthy on Aaron Rodgers’ future and what comes next.
"We’re definitely preparing for both scenarios.” pic.twitter.com/9Qnm7BaxxY
— ESPN Milwaukee (@ESPNMilwaukee) February 20, 2026
