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Steelers Aim to Sign Aaron Rodgers Before June Minicamp

4/24/2026

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Summary

Steelers Pursue Rodgers

The Pittsburgh Steelers plan to sign quarterback Aaron Rodgers to a deal before the June 2-4 minicamp.
Their chart lists rookie Will Howard and veteran Mason Rudolph, who may become the odd man out.
Rudolph has 34 games, 19 starts and was the first postseason starter since Ben Roethlisberger in 2023.
The Steelers could draft quarterback Ty Simpson in the second round or add Carson Beck or Drew Allar.

Summary

Steelers Draft Stockpile

Steelers hold 12 picks in the 2026 draft, with five in the top 100 and two early fourth-round selections.
Owner Art Rooney II said the No. 21 slot is “wide open” except possibly for a quarterback.
Analysts named interior line guard Olaivavega Ioane and receiver Makai Lemon as top day-one targets.
Sources expect any first-round trade-up to target non-quarterback players to address line and receiver gaps.

Summary

Rodgers Delays Signing

Rodgers is irritated by owner Art Rooney II’s March owners’ meeting comments about his return timeline, delaying his signing.
GM Omar Khan says communication with Rodgers remains positive despite his minicamp absence.
Coach Mike McCarthy says he trusts Rodgers is more in tune than perceived and would be ready to play.
Defensive tackle Cam Heyward publicly urged Rodgers to join the Steelers, highlighting the team’s focus and Super Bowl aim.

Summary

Steelers Draft Fest

Pittsburgh downtown is hosting draft parties and fan zones as the NFL Draft starts in over 24 hours.
Jerome Bettis wants the Steelers to move up five or six spots in the round to get a top offensive lineman.
Local hotels and restaurants are preparing for a visitor surge, expecting the festivities to raise revenue.
Fans on social media voiced excitement about the draft’s closeness and the Steelers’ flexible draft capital.

History

Historical Context

The NFL and AFL merged in 1970, reshaping player transactions and drafts. The Pittsburgh Steelers, owned by Art Rooney II, currently hold 12 picks in the 2026 draft, including five in the top 100. This strategic positioning aims to strengthen their roster, particularly in the offensive line and receiving corps, potentially leading to a return to Super Bowl contention, reminiscent of their successes in the 1970s and 2000s.

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Steelers Pursue Rodgers

The Pittsburgh Steelers plan to sign quarterback Aaron Rodgers to a deal before the June 2-4 minicamp.
Their chart lists rookie Will Howard and veteran Mason Rudolph, who may become the odd man out.
Rudolph has 34 games, 19 starts and was the first postseason starter since Ben Roethlisberger in 2023.
The Steelers could draft quarterback Ty Simpson in the second round or add Carson Beck or Drew Allar.

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