If Aaron Rodgers decides to walk away from football again, the Pittsburgh Steelers might already have a contingency plan in mind - and it could involve pulling another seasoned quarterback out of retirement.
Derek Carr, who stepped away from the game after the 2024 season due to injuries, is reportedly open to returning under the right circumstances. According to NFL insiders, multiple teams have done their homework on the 34-year-old veteran, just in case he’s ready to lace up the cleats again.
And Pittsburgh? They’re one of the teams that make a lot of sense.
Carr’s name surfaced in a recent list of potential landing spots, alongside the Dolphins, Vikings, and Jets. But the Steelers stand out - not just because of need, but because of a clear pattern.
Pittsburgh has leaned heavily into the veteran quarterback market lately, signing Russell Wilson in 2024 and then bringing in Aaron Rodgers last season. With Rodgers helping guide the team to an AFC North title in 2025, expectations haven’t dipped one bit - and the front office seems committed to keeping that competitive window open.
If Rodgers retires, Carr becomes a compelling option. He’s a proven commodity, a five-time Pro Bowler, and in his final season with the Saints, he posted a 101.0 passer rating - a mark that speaks volumes about his efficiency and command of the offense.
And let’s not forget: the Saints still hold his contractual rights, so any move would require some maneuvering. But for the right fit, Carr might be willing to make it work.
Pittsburgh’s situation could be exactly what draws him back. There’s a win-now roster in place, and with Mike McCarthy stepping in as the new head coach, Carr would be walking into a system with familiar elements.
One big question is how Carr and McCarthy would mesh - stylistically and philosophically - but on paper, there’s reason for optimism. Add in DK Metcalf on the outside and a team built to contend, and the Steelers could offer Carr more than just a one-year rental.
This could be a multi-season opportunity if the chemistry clicks.
And that’s the key. Carr isn’t just a stopgap - not if he’s healthy.
Compared to the other names that might hit free agency, he offers a higher ceiling and a steadier floor. He’s been in big games, led offenses through rebuilds and playoff pushes, and knows what it takes to lead a locker room.
So if Rodgers does hang it up again, don’t be surprised if Pittsburgh picks up the phone. The Steelers have gone the veteran route before - and if Carr’s ready to return, they might just do it again.