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57 minutes ago
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The Pittsburgh Steelers have their quarterback for the 2026 season: Aaron Rodgers. But this is not just another season for No. 12; it will be his final one and the eventual ride off into the sunset of his historic football career.
With that being said, this has now gone from a rebuilding, retooling-type season amidst a strong AFC North division to a do-or-die, all-or-nothing season to give Rodgers the best send-off possible.
Giving Rodgers another shot to chase the Lombardi Trophy has a smaller and hidden hindrance on this franchise, as now, they have no next-man-up. It was supposed to be a three-man QB room of Mason Rudolph, Will Howard, and newly drafted thrower Drew Allar. Now, those three have to fight for their rank behind No. 12.
Mike DeFabo, the Steelers' Staff Writer for The Athletic, believes that this situation will not be resolved quickly. This battle for QB2 will be a heavy one, and head coach Mike McCarthy is going to be paying close attention because the winner gets to not only be the backup but also carry the torch from Rodgers after this season ends.
Howard and Allar were stellar in college but unproven in the NFL. Rudolph is in his second stint with the Steelers following one year with the Tennessee Titans. One of those three will very likely be the Steelers' starting quarterback in 2027. That is where things will get very interesting, as the difference in leadership and starpower at the position will be stark.
But, for the 2026 season, the focus is on Rodgers. Can he pull off another unbelievable feat and chase after another Super Bowl victory at 42 years old? If Tom Brady can do it at 43, it is still possible.
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