Analyst offers superb Steelers Aaron Rodgers backup plan

Jan 12, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) audibles during the second half of an AFC Wild Card Round game against the Houston Texans at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

The Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback situation is becoming a saga as the franchise waits on what Aaron Rodgers decides to do.

Owner Art Rooney II stated that he expected to know about Rodgers' plan before the draft, so at least we have a timeline for a decision.

But what if Rodgers does, in fact, retire? What will the Steelers do then, as it seems like the franchise is putting all of its eggs into his basket?

Well, Sports Illustrated's Mike Kadlick has named the Steelers as a potential landing spot for Kirk Cousins if the Rodgers thing falls through.

"If they don’t end up bringing back Aaron Rodgers as their quarterback in 2026, the Steelers will have to pivot at the position—even if their plan is to draft and develop a rookie behind signal callers Will Howard and Mason Rudolph," Kadlick wrote.

"Pittsburgh tried to trade for Cousins from the Falcons last offseason, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. Perhaps they go that route again if the Rodgers-McCarthy reunion falls through."

More: Packers oddly named as landing spot for 4-time Pro Bowl QB

Cousins in Pittsburgh a good move

We saw what Cousins did in Minnesota when he had a stellar defense and top offensive weapons.

He'll get that in Pittsburgh.

With DK Metcalf, Michael Pittman Jr., and Jaylen Warren as his top options, plus a defense that should be far better than it was last season, there is every reason to think Kirk could do something good in Pittsburgh.

Of course, this is predicated on Rodgers not returning, and if he doesn't, starting Cousins over Will Howard and Mason Rudolph might just be what gets fans excited about 2026.

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