Ben Roethlisberger calls out Aaron Rodgers for leaving Steelers waiting for second offseason in a row

The Pittsburgh Steelers are once again in a waiting game with Aaron Rodgers, a situation that has become familiar to fans in recent years. The story first gained traction during the 2025 offseason, when Rodgers’ future was the subject of endless speculation. This time, however, Steelers general manager Omar Khan has insisted that the process should move faster, signaling that the organization wants clarity sooner rather than later. Rodgers has been rumored to be interested in returning to Pittsburgh for the 2026 season, a move that would bring a veteran presence to the offense but also raise questions about how the team will balance his age with its long-term plans.

At 43 years old during the 2026 season, Rodgers would be one of the oldest starting quarterbacks in the league. While his skill and experience are undeniable, the Steelers and head coach Mike McCarthy will have to weigh whether relying on a veteran quarterback at this stage is the right decision. For McCarthy, who will be in his first year as Pittsburgh’s head coach, integrating Rodgers into the offense could be a double-edged sword: On one hand, it brings leadership and experience; on the other, it could limit opportunities for younger quarterbacks such as Will Howard or change the trajectory of the team’s long-term development.

The Steelers front office is reportedly preparing for multiple scenarios. While the hope is that Rodgers will return, they are also evaluating other options through the draft and free agency. Balancing the desire for a veteran presence with the need to develop the next generation of quarterbacks is a delicate task. Steelers great Ben Roethlisberger shared his thoughts while speaking on his podcast "Footbahlin" on Tuesday evening. 

"To me, that is just gigantic because I think now you got DK [Metcalf], him [Michael Pittman Jr.], and obviously you still have Roman Wilson. We believe on this show he’s a really good talent and a guy they need to use more," Roethlisberger said. "I still think there is an opportunity to go get a guy somewhere in the draft. You got the picks. We talk about draft capital and being able to use that draft capital to make these moves, but yeah, that is a big one. I know Aaron [Rodgers] has gotta be happy."

Amid the uncertainty, the conversation around Rodgers’ future has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike. His potential return to Pittsburgh would not only influence the team’s offensive strategy but also set the tone for how the Steelers approach the quarterback position for the next several years. Roethlisberger did have some direct words for Rodgers.

"How is Aaron not coming back when you have those kinds of weapons? Like, what are we doing? There is no way he is not coming back," Roethlisberger said. "No way. I do think it’s a shoo-in. I don’t see how he doesn’t come back. Hey, Aaron, just let us know, man. You know you can do that and just say, 'Yeah, I am coming back.'"

The Steelers’ wait for Rodgers continues to dominate the offseason narrative. While fans hope for clarity soon, the team is preparing for every possible scenario, from Rodgers returning to exploring other quarterback options. Patience remains key as Pittsburgh balances short-term success with long-term planning.

Steelers fans will be watching closely

Roethlisberger’s perspective adds an important voice to the conversation. His support for Rodgers and acknowledgment of the business side of the NFL highlights the complexity of decisions at the quarterback position. It also reinforces how high the stakes are for both the player and the team.

Ultimately, Rodgers’ decision will shape the Steelers’ 2026 season and beyond. Whether he returns or not, the organization has laid the groundwork with young talent and strategic planning. Fans will be watching closely, knowing that the next few weeks could define the future of Pittsburgh’s offense.