Steelers seem to be eyeing ambitious backup plan for Aaron Rodgers

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been incredibly patient while they wait for Aaron Rodgers to make a decision, but it appears they are at least exploring a viable backup plan.

Jordan Schultz of Fox Sports reported on Tuesday that Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders has scheduled a visit with the Steelers. The news came as somewhat of a surprise, as Pittsburgh has the 21st overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.

The Tennessee Titans are widely expected to select Cam Ward with the first overall pick. There has been talk that Sanders could slide down the board if both the Cleveland Browns and New York Giants pass on him at No. 2 and No. 3, respectively. But would Sanders fall all the way to No. 21?

In his latest mock draft, ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. predicted Sanders won't fall out of the top 10 even if both the Browns and Giants pass on the former Colorado star. Either the Steelers believe Kiper could be wrong, or they have not ruled out trading up.

At the very least, Pittsburgh general manager Omar Khan and company are doing their homework. The visit also seems like a good indicator that the rumors about Rodgers committing to the Steelers during Pat McAfee's "Big Night AHT" event (which is being held in Pittsburgh) later this week are not going to come to fruition.

The Steelers probably did not expect Rodgers to take this long. Their initial Plan B was to bring back Russell Wilson, but Wilson has since signed with the New York Giants. Mike Tomlin has said he would be comfortable entering the 2025 season with Mason Rudolph as his starting quarterback, but you have to think Pittsburgh is aiming higher than that.

While the Steelers have not given Rodgers a deadline, it is possible they want an answer before the NFL Draft. Should Rodgers decide he is not going to sign with them, they would then have the option of making an aggressive play for Sanders.