The Aaron Rodgers saga in Pittsburgh may finally be nearing its conclusion. According to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, the four-time MVP is expected to visit the Steelers this weekend, and all signs point to him donning the black and gold for the 2026 season.
"FA QB Aaron Rodgers, who is expected to visit the Steelers Friday and this weekend, will likely play for them in 2026, sources say," Rapoport reported Thursday. While caution remains until contracts are signed, Rodgers' plan is reportedly to play for Pittsburgh, and this visit is a key step toward that goal.
The Steelers placed a UFA tender on Rodgers in late April, a move widely seen as a placeholder. The tender would pay him roughly $15 million—a 10% raise over last year's salary—but few expect that figure to be the final deal. As Rapoport noted, "Hard to imagine he plays for $15M, which is why a deal must be worked out and finalized. But finality is coming soon."
The quarterback carousel in Pittsburgh has been spinning for months. Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen gave Rodgers' return a "50-50" chance back in April, and reports indicated the veteran wasn't expected to make a decision until after the NFL Draft. Now, with the draft in the rearview mirror and Rodgers' visit on the horizon, the waiting game appears to be winding down.
Meanwhile, Pittsburgh hasn't put all its eggs in one basket. The Steelers selected Penn State's Drew Allar in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, adding him to a quarterback room that already includes veteran Mason Rudolph and 2025 sixth-round pick Will Howard. But if Rodgers signs, he would immediately become the centerpiece of a team looking to make noise in a tough AFC North.
For fans eager to see Rodgers in Steelers gear, the countdown may finally be on. Whether you're stocking up on black and gold jerseys or just waiting for the official announcement, one thing is clear: the drama is almost over.
