Steelers secure quarterback depth with tender on Rodgers following 2026 draft

The Pittsburgh Steelers have formalised their quarterback strategy following the 2026 NFL Draft by placing an unrestricted free agent tender on Aaron Rodgers. The 42-year-old veteran has not yet confirmed whether he will return for a potential 22nd season, leaving the team with three confirmed signal-callers on the roster. Owner Art Rooney II has indicated that a re-signing is likely within the coming weeks, a move that would expand the depth chart to four quarterbacks.

The current roster composition includes veteran Mason Rudolph, sixth-round selection Tytus Howard, and third-round pick Drew Allar. Rudolph, who returned to the club in 2025 on a two-year, $7.5 million contract, remains the only quarterback on the list with regular-season NFL experience. He spent the first six seasons of his career with the Steelers before a brief stint with the Tennessee Titans in 2024.

Tytus Howard, selected in the sixth round of the 2025 draft, brings significant collegiate accolades to the mix. The 24-year-old led Ohio State to a College Football Playoff championship in 2024, and NFL Media's Tom Pelissero referred to him as the team's starting quarterback during offseason workouts. Meanwhile, the Steelers selected Penn State quarterback Drew Allar in the third round, 76th overall, marking the first time a signal-caller has been drafted during the Mike McCarthy era.

The placement of the tender on Rodgers serves as an insurance policy for the franchise. This mechanism ensures that Pittsburgh receives a compensatory draft pick should Rodgers sign with another team in 2026. Rooney explained that while the club does not expect Rodgers to leave, the tender protects the organisation's interests in the unlikely event that he departs for a different franchise.

Rodgers has been the subject of speculation regarding his retirement or return to the NFL throughout the offseason. The Steelers have maintained regular contact with the four-time MVP, with Rooney noting that the owner expects a decision on his future in the next few weeks. General manager Omar Khan had previously suggested the team would go to camp with four quarterbacks, a scenario now contingent on Rodgers' choice.

The integration of Allar, who possesses the physical tools to challenge incumbents immediately, adds a layer of competition to the room. With McCarthy not tied to the two incumbents, Allar could challenge both Rudolph and Howard for the starting gig right out of the gates. The final configuration of the quarterback room will depend on Rodgers' decision, which the club anticipates resolving shortly.