Aaron Rodgers’ future with the Pittsburgh Steelers is no longer the only storyline in play. A new report suggests the four-time MVP could have an NFC option on the table, with the Arizona Cardinals emerging as a potential landing spot if talks with Pittsburgh stall.
The possibility gained traction after CBS Sports’ John Breech pointed to Arizona’s unsettled quarterback situation as a reason the team could make a move. “Instead of giving Brissett more money, the Cardinals could simply call Rodgers and offer that money to him,” Breech noted, referencing contract tension with Jacoby Brissett.
According to Sports Illustrated, Arizona also has Gardner Minshew II and rookie Carson Beck on the roster, but neither is viewed as a long-term lock, creating an opening for a veteran presence.
The Cardinals also bring familiarity. Offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett previously worked with Rodgers during successful stretches with both the Green Bay Packers and New York Jets. That connection, combined with a fluid depth chart, has fueled discussion about whether Rodgers would consider a move outside the AFC.
At the same time, the Steelers remain firmly in the picture. Owner Art Rooney II recently said the organization has maintained steady communication with Rodgers and expects clarity soon. “We’ve been in contact with Aaron on a regular basis,” Rooney said. “Even though I thought it probably would have been concluded by now, I think we will come to a conclusion here in the next few weeks.”
There are also signs that Pittsburgh has been operating with Rodgers in mind. NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero said the team’s offseason decisions appear aligned with the quarterback’s preferences. “Everything the Steelers did in the draft may not have been designed for Aaron Rodgers,” Pelissero explained, “but certainly, if you were saying, ‘What might Aaron Rodgers want?’ … everything seems to have been built in that direction.”
This uncertainty follows a 2025 season in which Rodgers helped guide Pittsburgh to a 10-6 record and a playoff appearance, throwing for 3,322 yards and 24 touchdowns. After a turbulent stint with the New York Jets, his first year with the Steelers was largely viewed as a reset both on and off the field.
Rodgers has not rushed the decision. In a recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, he made it clear that no immediate announcement was coming, emphasizing that there are no deadlines or active contract offers forcing a choice.
