Despite lingering uncertainty at quarterback, the Pittsburgh Steelers are operating as if they have a clear plan in place. Since Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement in 2021, however, the team has struggled to find stability at the position.
The Kenny Pickett experiment lasted two underwhelming seasons before Pittsburgh traded the 2022 first-round pick to the Philadelphia Eagles last offseason.
In 2024, the Steelers brought in Russell Wilson as the starter and Justin Fields as his backup, but both departed in free agency. That leaves Mason Rudolph currently projected as the team’s starting quarterback for the 2025 season.
Still, the possibility of signing four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers remains on the table — and based on recent signals, the Steelers may believe it’s a move that’s close to becoming reality.
On Monday, reports confirmed that the Steelers and veteran wide receiver Robert Woods agreed to a one-year deal worth $2 million.
Robert Woods, who spent the past two seasons with the Houston Texans, recorded 20 catches for 203 yards and no touchdowns in 2024.
A Super Bowl champion with the Los Angeles Rams in 2021, Woods wrapped up a five-year stint with the team before moving on to the Tennessee Titans. Prior to his time in L.A., he began his NFL career with the Buffalo Bills, who selected him in the second round of the 2013 Draft.
Woods now joins a Steelers receiving group headlined by George Pickens and two-time Pro Bowler DK Metcalf.
The Pittsburgh Steelers Are Confident Aaron Rodgers Will Sign with Them
The timing of Robert Woods’ signing following the 2025 NFL Draft carries added significance, especially given that the Steelers didn’t select a quarterback until the sixth round, when they took Ohio State’s Will Howard. Had Pittsburgh believed Mason Rudolph would be their unquestioned starter heading into the season, they likely would have targeted a quarterback much earlier — potentially even in the first round.
But they didn’t.
During the draft, Steelers owner Art Rooney addressed the media, saying, “We’re still kind of getting the same signals we’ve been getting recently that he does want to come here. I do think we may get word soon, obviously, with things starting to crank up here with the offseason program, etc. If he’s coming, would like to get him here soon for some of that.”
Head coach Mike Tomlin echoed that cautious optimism: “We’ve had good conversations. We feel good about our plan at the position. Certainly, it’s yet to be revealed at this point, and I understand the angst not only [from the media], but from this community that supports us. We’re excited about what potentially awaits us there. But really, I have nothing to add other than that.”
While Aaron Rodgers has yet to make a formal decision, it appears clear the Steelers are anticipating a commitment soon — and expecting him to join team activities shortly thereafter.
