The Steelers Are Reportedly Considering Free Agency Quarterback Move

Originally posted on The Spun | By Daniel Bates | Last updated Mar 10, 2026 2:57 PM ET

Another offseason, another year of the Steelers waiting on Aaron Rodgers. Only this time, it sounds like the franchise is keeping its options open.

As we head for Day 3 of NFL free agency, there are still a number of veteran quarterbacks to be had — including Kyler Murray, Kirk Cousins, Joe Flacco and others. And according to the NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, the Steelers need to put a "contingency plan" in place depending on what Rodgers decides.

The 42-year-old QB is still weighing whether or not he wants to stay in Pittsburgh, play elsewhere or not play at all. And as we know, he's going to take his time to do so (which he has every right to do).

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) looks on after being sacked during the first half of the NFL Wild Card game against the Houston Texans at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA on January 12, 2026.© Michael Longo/For USA Today Network-PA / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images.

Pittsburgh Steelers 'nosing around' free agent QB market

Per Garafolo, Pittsburgh has sent some feelers out this offseason to gauge interest in the quarterback market and are "nosing around" free agency to see who might be a fit if Aaron chooses to walk away.

Rodgers has been very complementary of the team and new head coach Mike McCarthy, but he maintains that no contract has been put in front of him — nor is he looking to sign on any dotted lines right now.

But the clock is definitely ticking for McCarthy and the Steelers, and each passing day the options get fewer — especially after this afternoon's trade of Geno Smith to the Jets.

Steelers trade for Michael Pittman Jr., sign WR to 3-year deal

With that said, the Steelers have made some other notable additions prior to the draft like trading for Colts 1,000-yard receiver Michael Pittman Jr.

Pittsburgh acquired the son of the former Bucs running back for a late-round pick swap before reportedly signing him to a three-year, $59 million deal. While Indianapolis gains $24 million in cap space to make room for Alec Pierce and his new $116 million contract.

A WR duo of Pittman and DK Metcalf is a pretty significant upgrade over last year's group. Now it's just a matter of who will be throwing them the ball in 2026.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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