The Pittsburgh Steelers are making waves this offseason, and it's hard not to notice the buzz around their latest moves. They've snagged wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. from the Indianapolis Colts and inked a two-year, $12.25 million deal with running back Rico Dowdle. These strategic decisions might just be setting the stage for a big name under center-42-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Now, you might be wondering, where do Rodgers and the Steelers stand in all this offseason chatter? Steelers insider Brooke Pryor from ESPN has shed some light on the situation. It seems Pittsburgh's recent activity hints that newly appointed head coach Mike McCarthy is banking on Rodgers leading the charge this September.
While Rodgers hasn't committed to the Steelers just yet, the ongoing dialogue between the two parties has been promising. Rodgers is well aware of the roster shaping up around him.
But even if Rodgers decides to hang up his cleats, these moves would still bolster second-year quarterback Will Howard. Remember, Howard led Ohio State to a national championship with a robust defense and a powerful running game.
There's been some buzz about Pittsburgh's view on Howard, a sixth-round pick from 2025 who hasn't seen the field in a regular season game yet. Rumors are swirling about a potential interest in Alabama's Ty Simpson. The speculation suggests that Rodgers could play one more year, paving the way for Simpson to eventually become the Steelers' starting quarterback.
Last year, Rodgers didn't make his move to the Steelers official until June. Yet, former head coach Mike Tomlin hinted he had an inkling about Rodgers' plans for the 2025 season even before the draft.
It's evident the Steelers are crafting an offense tailored for a seasoned quarterback who might not be as spry as he once was. But don't call it a rebuild. Pryor emphasizes that McCarthy and general manager Omar Khan are focusing on adding pieces that enhance Pittsburgh's identity as a gritty, run-first team.
By sharing the load on offense, the Steelers could keep Rodgers in peak condition throughout the grueling season. While nothing is set in stone with Rodgers until the ink dries on a contract, it certainly feels like his return to Pittsburgh is just around the corner.