Did Steelers view Kirk Cousins as Aaron Rodgers insurance before Raiders decision?

Throughout March, numerous stories suggested that the Pittsburgh Steelers viewed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins as a fallback option in the event that Aaron Rodgers either chose to retire or sign elsewhere. 

However, the situation changed Thursday when it was learned that Cousins agreed to what is basically a one-year, $20M contract with a Las Vegas Raiders side that is expected to make Indiana Hoosiers star Fernando Mendoza the first overall pick of the 2026 NFL Draft. 

During an appearance on "The Rich Eisen Show," NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero addressed whether or not Cousins was truly a plan B for the Raiders. 

Steelers had Kirk Cousins on their radar before Raiders deal?

"Kirk Cousins was on the Steelers' radar, just like he was on the Steelers' radar a year ago," Pelissero explained, per Alex Kozora of Steelers Depot. 

Cousins spent portions of last summer looking to be traded after the Atlanta Falcons made it clear that he wouldn't have an opportunity to win their starting job over a healthy Michael Penix Jr. ahead of Week 1. However, Rodgers ultimately signed with the Steelers in June 2025. 

As it pertains to the current offseason, stories continue to note through the first Friday of April that most expect Rodgers will eventually reunite with head coach Mike McCarthy in Pittsburgh. However, McCarthy and Co. are allegedly "very comfortable" with whatever Rodgers intends to do. 

Longtime backup Mason Rudolph and 2025 rookie Will Howard would be on track to compete for the Steelers' QB1 gig if Rodgers rides off into the sunset of retirement. 

Steelers have "possibilities" in mind if Aaron Rodgers retires? 

"This time around," Pelissero continued, "if Rodgers didn't come back, my understanding has been that Cousins was one of the possibilities that they could go out and pursue." 

Pelissero's update makes it seem that those who assume McCarthy knows Rodgers will be back atop the Pittsburgh depth chart are incorrect. Over the past week, Steelers owner/president Art Rooney II said on multiple occasions that he expects to learn how Rodgers will spend the 2026 season before the draft gets underway in Pittsburgh on April 23.